JAMES THOMPSON: "KIMBO LOOKED ABOUT THE SAME LEVEL AS WHEN HE FOUGHT ME"

October 16, 2009
Originally posted on FightyHype.com by Percy Crawford

"I guess that after his loss, he had a big break and I think when you're first getting to grips with wrestling and the ground, you can't afford to do that. I thought Kimbo looked about the same level as when he fought me. He's dangerous on his feet and not so dangerous when he's not on them," stated Strikeforce heavyweight James Thompson as he shared his thoughts on Kimbo Slice fighting in the UFC. Check it out!

PC: How have you been doing James?

JT: Good, thanks mate!

PC: You haven't fought that much this year. Is that by design? Do you think you need to take some time off?

JT: I've fought twice this year actually; once in Japan once in Montreal. I had a lot of fights not happen, but I'll fight before the end of the year.

PC: I wanted to talk to you a little about all of the hype that Kimbo Slice is generating. A lot of people didn't feel like you got a fair shake in that fight. Is that a rematch you're still hoping to get some day?

JT: I did not get a fair shot and would love for a rematch down the line.

PC: Did you see his fight against Roy Nelson and if so, what did you think of his performance?

JT: I guess that after his loss, he had a big break and I think when you're first getting to grips with wrestling and the ground, you can't afford to do that. I thought Kimbo looked about the same level as when he fought me. He's dangerous on his feet and not so dangerous when he's not on them.

PC: Although it's no fault of his own, Kimbo does garner a lot of attention. Do you think he's deserving of it?

JT: Depends on how you look at it. He hasn't paid his dues the usual route, but then again, he, or someone very smart, marketed him well. Wish I'd thought of the idea. I would've been right on it. So I don't begrudge him for any of it.

PC: You are currently on a 4-fight losing streak. What do you feel you have to do to get things turned around?

JT: Yeah, it has been really hard. After the Kimbo fight, I felt I gave everything and did not get a fair run, so I started feeling sorry for myself and went off track big time. All of this was my own fault. Not a big secret what I have to do to turn things around. I just have to take advantage of the great training I have at London Shoot Fighter, which is what I'm now doing.

PC: When would you like to fight again and would you prefer it be in the States or Japan?

JT: I want to fight before Christmas and I don't mind where because both treat us well.

PC: Would you have ever considered trying out for The Ultimate Fighter?

JT: I would have gone for this season, but I'm contracted to Strikeforce. Scott Coker has been very good in letting me fight anywhere, but that might have been pushing it a bit.

PC: Thanks for your time. Good luck in your next fight. Is there anything you want to say in closing?

JT: No problem. I just wanted to say thanks to London Shoot Fighter, Cherry Active, EXtreme Nutrition and MMAagents. Cheers!