After years of pursuit, British heavyweight Oli Thompson will finally meet Poland’s Mariusz Pudzianowski in a bout set for KSW 27, at Poland’s Ergo Arena on May 17.
The rivalry stems from when both men competed in strongman competition. The 2006 Britain’s Strongest Man spent a long period of time in the shadow of Poland’s ‘Dominator’ Pudzianowski who took the World’s Strongest Man crown on five occasions.
However, mixed martial arts has turned the tables somewhat with Thompson (12-5) now a UFC veteran and former UCMMA heavyweight champion, and it’s no secret that a victory over Pudzianowski (6-3-1NC) has been one of his career objectives.
Thompson is currently on a two fight win streak having most recently finished Kamil Walus via TKO at KSW 25 in December, 2013. With twelve career victories, ‘The Spartan’ of East Sussex has finished five men via knockout and six by way of submission.
In contrast, ‘Pudzian’ most recently found victory in a rematch with UFC veteran Sean McCorkle at KSW 24, and holds a 6-2 record in the Polish promotion with one no-contest.
Thompson has expressed his repect for Pudzianowski who followed through and accepted the challenge. Furthermore, this fight will take place in a newly featured cage, with previous KSW cards having taken place in a ring.
