The hierarchy of divisions can stay rigid at times. In others, they change in an instant. When Stephen Thompson bested former welterweight champion Johny Hendricks inside four minutes into the the first round of their UFC Fight Night 82 clash last month, the victory had a disruptive effect.
Was Tyron Woodley still the top contender? How was Thompson able to stop Hendricks in less than one round when champion Robbie Lawler couldn't do it in 10? Where does this leave other top contenders?
The process of resorting is already in full swing, however, and Thompson is set to face Rory MacDonald in June at UFC Fight Night 89.