In August, Thompson faced undefeated contender Kubrat Pulev in another IBF title eliminator, in an attempt to secure a third fight with Wladimir Klitschko. After a competitive first seven rounds, Thompson faded down the stretch and allowed Pulev to take advantage by out-boxing him, and landing the more cleaner and effective shots. Following this setback, at age 41, Thompson's career at the top level was once again in doubt. After the bout, Thompson once again tested positive for the same substance found in his system during the Price rematch, receiving a 12-month ban from the Austrian Boxing Federation.