The rumored match up between Kimbo Slice (2-0) and James Thompson (14-8) is apparently booked for the CBS Saturday Night Fights EliteXC main event at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., on May 31, according to Carson's Corner.
Bob Carson -- the host of the mixed martial arts radio show -- revealed that his team has received official confirmation from high ranking ProElite officials, ending (or so it appears) weeks of speculation regarding a possible opponent for the magnetic Miami native.
Ken Shamrock, Ron Waterman and others have also been discussed in the past as possible challengers.
Slice is on a two-fight win streak since his MMA debut in late 2007, defeating Bo Cantrell via submission (punches) and most recently Tank Abbott via knockout at EliteXC: "Street Certified" this past February. He is perhaps the most recognizable and marketable star on the EliteXC roster despite his lack of experience. That is due in large part to Slice's exposure on YouTube.com as a street fighter who beat beat all but one foe (Sean Gannon).
He now trains with former UFC champion and MMA legend, Bas Rutten, to improve his all around skill and technique. However, it's more than likely possible that any skill set besides striking won't come into play against "The Colossus."
Thompson is a former Pride FC and Cage Rage veteran who made a name for himself in the sport with an intimidating physique and good punching power. However, he looked noticeably less jacked in his EliteXC debut, during which Brett Rogers put him to sleep in less than three minutes. It was his second straight loss via knockout and the third time in his last four fights.
And that's Thompson in a nutshell: Either he gets knocked out or he knocks someone out. In fact, in 22 professional fights he has only gone the distance once time (a win over Dan Severn). According to the report, the British fighter will train for the Slice bout in Las Vegas and work with Brazilian jiu-jitsu coach, Marc Laimon, and others to prepare for the heavyweight showdown.
It would be a shock to see Thompson attempt to turn this into a grappling contest. More than likely expect this one to remain upright for as long as possible until either Slice or Thompson drops.
It's the kind of exciting and memorable finish that EliteXC will look to deliver on its network television debut.
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