Tony Ferguson Gears Up for UFC Abu Dhabi with Over 120 Sparring Rounds
Tony Ferguson is set to return to the UFC Octagon this weekend at UFC Abu Dhabi, taking on Michael Chiesa in a welterweight bout that has fans and critics buzzing. This fight could mark the end of an era for Ferguson, who has been struggling on a seven-fight losing streak since his last victory five years ago against Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone at UFC 238.
Despite the challenging period, the 40-year-old Ferguson has taken drastic measures to prepare for this bout, including reintroducing sparring into his training regime. In a candid interview with the UFC, Ferguson revealed that he has sparred over 120 rounds for the first time in seven years, aiming to break his losing streak and possibly reignite his career.
“I think it’s pretty cool that I’m able to do this (fight in Abu Dhabi). I obviously want to continue to do this, so I have to perform, and I will perform. That’s why this camp was a little more interesting for me,” Ferguson explained. “I went back to sparring… I went back to sparring, I haven’t sparred in seven years, where I’ve had good training partners. I put in about 120 rounds or more of sparring, I put in a lot of wrestling, good training partners, good vibes, a good team.”
Ferguson’s last fight against Islam Makhachev ended in a submission defeat in Round 5, leading him to auction his fight kit for his charity, The Good Fight Foundation. The winning bid fell through, but former rival Khabib Nurmagomedov stepped in and purchased the kit, providing much-needed funds for Poirier’s charitable endeavors.
Ferguson’s decision to spar again comes after he enlisted the help of motivational speaker and former Navy SEAL David Goggins in his corner. Despite this change, the former UFC interim lightweight champion is aware of the risks, especially at 40 years old.
“I had back-to-back surgeries on my knee and my elbow, that brought me slow enough. I had no choice but to go step by step to get my s*** back to where it needed to be—that’s flexibility, mental, speed, and so on. I went in there and took this camp very seriously, I had a lot of fun, and I still talk to Goggins. He said, ‘Go f*** s*** up, kid,’” Ferguson shared.
Ferguson’s fans remain loyal, although many express concern about his return to sparring. One fan commented, “It’s irresponsible to let this guy keep fighting,” reflecting the mixed feelings among the MMA community about Ferguson’s future in the sport.
If Ferguson loses on Saturday, it’s unlikely that the UFC will offer him another fight, given his age and current losing streak. Another fan voiced their frustration, saying, “Wish the guy the best, but as a fan, I’m tired of hearing the same old thing from him. It’s always ‘went back to doing this and that… had the best camp ever… etc. etc.’”
Regardless of the outcome, Ferguson’s determination and willingness to adapt his training regimen demonstrate his unwavering commitment to the sport. His fight against Chiesa this weekend is poised to be a pivotal moment in his career, one that could either end his professional journey or mark the beginning of a remarkable comeback.
Tony Ferguson’s story is a testament to the relentless spirit of a fighter. Whether you agree with his methods or not, there’s no denying the heart and dedication he brings to the Octagon. As he steps into the cage this weekend, the world will be watching, hoping to see a glimpse of the ‘El Cucuy’ that once dominated the lightweight division.
