Oli Thompson set for heavyweight clash in Munich after remarkable strongman-to-MMA journey
Former strongman competitor Oli Thompson is preparing for another major test as he gets ready to compete in Germany this February. The East Sussex native is scheduled to face Darko Stošić in a heavyweight bout at FNC 27, with the event taking place on February 7, 2026, at Munich’s SAP Garden.
The bout was revealed through Thompson’s own social media, where he confirmed he is deep into training camp and finalising his fight gear. In the same post, Thompson openly reached out to potential sponsors, explaining that support would go a long way in helping fund his preparation, with branding opportunities available on fight kit and social media.
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From East Sussex strongman to elite MMA competition
Before ever stepping inside a cage, Thompson had already built an impressive sporting résumé as a professional strongman. Representing the UK, he competed at the World’s Strongest Man competition, an achievement that placed him among the world’s most powerful athletes. His background in strength sports saw him develop exceptional power, durability, and physical presence, traits that would later define his fighting style.
Making the transition from strongman to mixed martial arts, Thompson committed fully to learning the sport rather than relying solely on size and strength. He went on to compete across several major organisations, including Bellator, KSW, and the UFC, taking on experienced heavyweights and testing himself at the highest levels available. While his MMA record reflects the challenges of facing elite opposition, his willingness to accept difficult matchups has earned him respect throughout the European fight scene.
The upcoming clash with Stošić is another example of that mindset. Stošić brings UFC experience, a compact frame, and a pressure-heavy approach that contrasts sharply with Thompson’s height and raw power. It is a stylistic matchup that has drawn interest from fans, particularly given Thompson’s continued presence on large international cards at this stage of his career.
For Thompson, February 7 in Munich represents more than just another fight. It is a continuation of a career built on reinvention, from the world’s strongest arenas to some of Europe’s biggest MMA stages, and another opportunity to prove that his journey is far from over.
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