Alkass Digital
UFC's head honcho, Dana White, is crossing his fingers that Tony Ferguson's (25-10 MMA, 15-8 UFC) upcoming walk to the octagon at UFC Abu Dhabi on ABC 7 this August will mark the end of his illustrious career. White hasn't minced words when it comes to suggesting retirement for Ferguson, the once-beloved former interim UFC lightweight champion whose career has taken a nosedive with seven consecutive losses.
Despite Ferguson's losing streak being against notable opponents like Paddy Pimblett, Bobby Green, Nate Diaz, Michael Chandler, Beneil Dariush, Charles Oliveira, and Justin Gaethje, his performances have progressively worsened. The dominant "El Cucuy" who once boasted a remarkable 13-fight UFC winning streak seems to be a distant memory, yet Ferguson remains steadfast in his desire to compete.
Now slated for another bout, the UFC recently announced Ferguson's matchup against Michael Chiesa (18-7 MMA, 11-7 UFC) at UFC Abu Dhabi on ABC 7. Scheduled for August 3rd at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, White has made it clear that regardless of the outcome—whether victory or another loss—he hopes this will be Ferguson's swan song.
During the UFC 302 post-fight press conference in Newark, N.J., White expressed his sentiments: "Yeah, I hope so... Yeah. I would like to see him retire."
Ferguson's fight against Chiesa carries significant weight as he strives to break his losing streak, which currently ties him with B.J. Penn for the longest in UFC history. Another defeat would cement Ferguson's name in the record books for all the wrong reasons.
There's immense pressure on Ferguson as he gears up for UFC on ABC 7, aiming to secure a win for the first time since June 2019.