Undefeated UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov caused controversy yesterday by making a bold statement about his fantasy fight against Tony Ferguson. During the interview, Khabib said Ferguson’s only chance to win would be through a “lucky punch,” a statement that doesn’t sit well with Ferguson. The exchange, which reignited the feud between the two, prompted a rare public reaction from Nurmagomedov, who offered some stern advice to his former rival
Khabib says: “Lucky Punch” Argument
Known for his reserve, Khabib Nurmagomedov generally avoids talking about Tony Ferguson. But Ferguson’s topic certainly came up recently on the “Inspire Me” podcast. Fans have long wanted to see the fantasy match between Khabib and Ferguson, especially after their scheduled fight was canceled five times. When asked, Khabib didn’t hold out that Ferguson’s only shot at winning would be a reward—a happy punch.
This story immediately caught Ferguson’s attention. Known for his fiery personality, Tony Ferguson responded by reminding everyone of his 12-fight winning streak in the lightweight division, a record he shares with Khabib but Ferguson has yet to finish. He took to social media to launch a scathing attack on Khabib, and made it clear that their rivalry is far from over.
Tony Ferguson’s Answer
Tony Ferguson didn’t take Khabib’s “lucky fist” comment lightly. In a scathing Instagram post, Ferguson attacked the undefeated Dagestani fighter, accusing him of being a coward and mocking his post-retirement weight gain Harsh language and personal jabs filled with, the Ferguson incident became Khabib’s direct pride.
“‘Lucky Punch’ now… And I’ll miss you, but Eve, he just couldn’t do anything,” Ferguson wrote, before calling Khabib a “coward” and a “chicken”. He did not stop there, rubbing Khabib’s body with a derogatory nickname and challenging him again, writing, “Khabibar, hide 29-1. LikeAssKongB—-h.” Ferguson also included a video exchange in which he mocked Khabib, who is seen surrounded by food—apparently a blow to his apparent weight gain.
Khabib’s Advice: Time to hang up the gloves?
During the intense exchange, Khabib gave Ferguson some serious advice. Reflecting on Ferguson’s recent struggles in the Octagon, Khabib suggested that it might be time for Ferguson to consider stepping away from MMA. “Leave this sport to the young fighters,” Khabib advised, and Ferguson is no longer the same fighter who once dominated the lightweight division
The suggestion that Ferguson should retire is a harsh reality for the former interim champion, who has been a staple in the UFC for years. However, Khabib’s comments highlight the brutality of the sport where even the most legendary fighters must eventually face the end of their careers.
The Match Never Moved to the Octagon
The rivalry between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson is the most “what if” in UFC history. Even though he was scheduled to fight five times, things like injury and illness didn’t always keep the fight going. The “lucky punch” incident, and the subsequent exchange between the two fighters only serve to remind fans of a battle that never existed.
While both fighters have moved on—Khabib is retired and Ferguson is struggling in the twilight of his career—their rivalry remains an oddity in UFC history. While fans can only speculate about what could have happened had they met in the Octagon, the verbal rivalry between the two does provide plenty of drama.
