SUMMARY
- Tony Ferguson is on a 7-fight losing streak, which is the longest in UFC history.
- In a recent podcast with MMA Junkie, UFC Commentator and Anchor Jon Anik expressed his opinions on UFC Lightweight Tony Ferguson's career.
Tony Ferguson is one of the most well-known names in the MMA community. The Boogyeman of the UFC Lightweight Division tore down fighters during his prime years, accumulating a 12-fight win streak. This would also be the longest winning streak in the lightweight division. He was also the former Interim UFC Lightweight Champion after defeating Kevin Lee.
In a recent podcast with MMA Junkie, UFC Commentator and Anchor Jon Anik expressed his opinions on UFC Lightweight Tony Ferguson’s career. He stated, “If there needs to be a fight for Tony Ferguson to get into the UFC Hall of Fame as a modern-era fighter on the merits of his individual accomplishments”. Fans were in complete agreement with his statement.
.@Jon_Anik will “fight like hell” to make sure Tony Ferguson ends up in the UFC Hall of Fame. 🗣️
(via @MMAJunkieGeorge, @TheGoze) pic.twitter.com/bxMio76qUw
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) January 8, 2024
Anik made it clear that Tony Ferguson deserved his spot in the UFC Hall of Fame in the Modern Era. And he would also do anything required to get him inducted. He further stated that Ferguson’s 12-fight win streak should be enough to get him a spot for the same. Sadly, this could also be the last achievement for El Cucuy in the UFC and his memorable career with the organization.
Tony Ferguson shuts down calls for UFC retirement after longest UFC losing streak
After an illustrious career and simultaneous downfall, Tony Ferguson seems to have many fans and fellow fighters concerned. Ferguson is on a 7-fight losing streak, which is the longest in UFC history. Tying up with UFC legend B.J. Penn. Ferguson not only losing but taking immense damage to his health is what is more upsetting to the MMA community.
Fans and fellow fighters such as Daniel Cormier and Sean O’Malley were vocal in suggesting the veteran call it quits and retire. Tony’s last bout was against English mixed martial artist Paddy Pimblett, who was an unranked up-and-coming prospect at UFC 296. Ferguson seemed out of touch and was dominated by Paddy for most of the match.
Tony Ferguson’s first message to fans since dropping a decision to Paddy Pimblett at #UFC296 pic.twitter.com/8ouMRuSIM6
— Ryan Harkness (@Ryan_Harkness) December 18, 2023
It became more clear after this loss that it was very difficult for Tony to bounce back. After losing his Interim UFC Lightweight Championship and 12-fight winning streak against current BMF Champion Justin Gaethje at UFC 249, the lightweight was never able to recover.
UFC 249: Justin Gaethje vs Tony Ferguson
On 12 days notice Justin came in to replace Khabib for the interim Lightwieght belt to take on Tony Ferguson who was on a 12 fight win streak. Justin would go on to show a beautiful display of striking, ending Tony’s long streak. Check out… pic.twitter.com/jsOqOsGQV6— Bry The MMA Guy (@BryTheMMAguy) October 11, 2023
Tony, who was initially preparing for a fight with champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, was brutally hammered by Gaethje. Justin came in as a replacement for Numagomedov after the latter dropped out due to not being able to leave Russia during COVID-19. The difference in fighting style between his two opponents Khabib being a core wrestler while Justin was an elite striker is what may have been a factor.
The impact was so severe that his arch-rival Khabib had predicted this downfall for Tony Ferguson as an aftermath. After his UFC 296 loss, Ferguson made it clear that he wouldn’t be retiring. He further appreciated the fans for their support and asked them to keep faith in him. Tony still believes he has what it takes to make a comeback, and that is what the MMA community wishes for.
