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Tony Ferguson
Tony Ferguson
Tony Ferguson
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Anthony Armand Ferguson Padilla[7] (born February 12, 1984) is an American professional mixed martial artist and professional boxer, and is the current MFB Middleweight Champion. As a mixed martial artist, he is a former Interim UFC Lightweight Champion[8][9] A professional since 2008, and was signed to the UFC from his The Ultimate Fighter 13 win in 2011 until his departure in 2025. He is regarded as one of the greatest fighters to not gain an undisputed belt.[10][11] He has trained in freestyle wrestling, boxing, jiu-jitsu,[4] Muay Thai,[12] and Wing Chun.[13]

Key Information

Early life and education

[edit]

Ferguson was born in Oxnard, California,[14][15] on February 12, 1984, but grew up mainly in Muskegon, Michigan. He is of Mexican heritage. His surname of Ferguson comes from his Scottish American stepfather.[16][17]

Ferguson was a three-sport athlete at Muskegon Catholic Central High School in American football, baseball, and wrestling. He was a starting defensive back for the 2000 Division 8 state football champions and was a three-time All-State selection in wrestling, winning the 152-lb division in 2002.

After high school, Ferguson enrolled at Central Michigan University before transferring to Grand Valley State University. He also did a stint at Muskegon Community College. He did not complete his degree, but had a successful collegiate wrestling career, winning the 2006 National Collegiate Wrestling Association national wrestling championship in the 165-lb division.[6]

Following college, Ferguson moved back to California to be closer to his extended family, working in marketing and sales during the day and picking up shifts as a bartender at night. One night, while working a bar shift, a patron noticed Ferguson's cauliflower ear and struck up a conversation about his wrestling background. The patron was a trainer at a local MMA gym and invited him to work with some young mixed martial artists on their wrestling. Shortly after this, he decided to pursue a professional mixed martial arts (MMA) career.

Mixed martial arts career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

Ferguson began his professional MMA career fighting in small organizations around California in 2007. Notable matches in his early career include a win over kickboxing champion Joe Schilling and a loss to future World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) fighter Karen Darabedyan.[18]

The Ultimate Fighter

[edit]

Ferguson applied to compete in the UFC's reality series The Ultimate Fighter multiple times. In 2010, he was finally accepted to compete in season 13 of the series after amassing a 10–2 professional record and winning the welterweight championship in PureCombat. He competed as a welterweight on The Ultimate Fighter: Team Lesnar vs. Team dos Santos.

Ferguson was selected as the third pick for Team Lesnar. In his first fight, Ferguson defeated Justin Edwards by knockout in the first round. He next faced Ryan McGillivray in the quarterfinals and won by a TKO in the first round. He then faced Chuck O'Neil in the semifinals and won by TKO in the third round to advance to the final.[19]

Ultimate Fighting Championship

[edit]

Ferguson officially made his UFC debut at the Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale against Ramsey Nijem to determine the winner of The Ultimate Fighter 13. Ferguson defeated Nijem by knockout in the first round to win a UFC contract.[20] He also received a $40,000 Knockout of the Night bonus.[21]

Following his debut, Ferguson returned to lightweight and faced Aaron Riley on September 24, 2011, at UFC 135. The fight was stopped after the first round after Riley said he had a broken jaw, resulting in a TKO victory for Ferguson.[22]

Ferguson then faced MMA veteran Yves Edwards at the Ultimate Fighter 14 Finale.[23] Ferguson won via unanimous decision (30–27, 30–27, and 29–28).[24]

Ferguson was expected to face Dennis Hallman on May 5, 2012, at UFC on Fox: Diaz vs. Miller.[25] Hallman pulled out of the bout with an injury and replaced by Thiago Tavares.[26] Then, Tavares was forced out of the bout with an injury and replaced by Michael Johnson.[27] Ferguson lost the fight by unanimous decision.[28]

Win streak

[edit]

After over a year away from competition while healing an arm injury incurred in his last fight, Ferguson returned to face Mike Rio on October 19, 2013, at UFC 166 which was the beginning of his twelve fight win streak.[29] He won by D'Arce choke submission in the first round. The win also earned him his first Submission of the Night award, valued at $60,000.[30]

Ferguson faced Katsunori Kikuno on May 24, 2014, at UFC 173.[31] He won the fight by knockout in the first round.[32]

Ferguson was expected to face Danny Castillo on August 2, 2014, at UFC 176.[33] After UFC 176 was cancelled, Castillo/Ferguson was rescheduled and took place on August 30, 2014, at UFC 177.[34] Ferguson won the fight via split decision.[35]

Ferguson faced Abel Trujillo on December 6, 2014, at UFC 181.[36] Ferguson won the bout in the second round by submission.[37]

Ferguson was expected to face Yancy Medeiros on February 28, 2015, at UFC 184.[38] Medeiros pulled out of the bout, citing injury, and was replaced by Gleison Tibau.[39] Ferguson won the fight by submission in the first round which also earned him a Performance of the Night bonus.[40]

Ferguson faced Josh Thomson on July 15, 2015, at UFC Fight Night 71.[41] He won the fight via unanimous decision (30–27, 30–27, and 30–26) and earned his second straight Performance of the Night bonus.[42][43]

Ferguson was expected to face Khabib Nurmagomedov on December 11, 2015, at the Ultimate Fighter 22 Finale.[44] Nurmagomedov pulled out of the fight in late October, citing injury, and was replaced by Edson Barboza.[45] After a back-and-forth first round that had Ferguson docked one point due to an illegal upkick, Ferguson finished Barboza with a D'Arce choke submission in the second round.[46] He earned his third consecutive Performance of the Night bonus as well as a Fight of the Night bonus.[47]

A rematch with Michael Johnson was briefly scheduled for March 5, 2016, at UFC 196.[48] On January 27, it was announced that Johnson withdrew from the bout due to injury. In turn, the bout with Nurmagomedov was rescheduled and expected take place on April 16, 2016, at UFC on Fox 19.[49] On April 5, Ferguson pulled out of the bout due to a lung issue.[50] He was replaced by promotional newcomer Darrell Horcher.[51]

Ferguson was expected to face Michael Chiesa on July 13, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 91.[52] Chiesa pulled out of the fight on June 27, citing injury, and was replaced by promotional newcomer Lando Vannata.[53][54] Ferguson won his second straight fight via D'Arce choke and was awarded another Fight of the Night bonus.[55][56]

Ferguson fought former champion Rafael dos Anjos on November 5, 2016, at the Ultimate Fighter Latin America 3 Finale.[57] He won the fight by unanimous decision. Both participants were awarded Fight of the Night, which gave Ferguson his sixth post-fight bonus in his past five fights.[58][59]

The pairing with Nurmagomedov was scheduled for a third time at UFC 209, this time for the interim UFC Lightweight Championship.[60] Prior to the weigh-ins for the event, Nurmagomedov was hospitalized due to the ill effects of his weight cut, and the bout was cancelled yet again.[61]

Ferguson faced Kevin Lee on October 7, 2017, at UFC 216 for the interim UFC Lightweight Championship. He won the bout by triangle choke submission in the third round.[62][63] A bout with Nurmagomedov had been scheduled for the fourth time on April 7, 2018, at UFC 223.[64] On April 1, 2018, Ferguson reportedly tore his fibular collateral ligament while walking on the set for a pre-fight media obligation and was forced to withdraw from the event.[65][66]

Ferguson faced Anthony Pettis on October 6, 2018, at UFC 229.[67] He won the bout via corner stoppage after two rounds. Pettis' longtime cornerman and coach, Duke Roufus, informed the referee that he would not continue after suffering a broken hand.[68] Their performance earned both participants Fight of the Night honors.[69]

Ferguson next faced Donald Cerrone on June 8, 2019, at UFC 238.[70] He won the fight via TKO due to a doctor stoppage after Cerrone blew his nose between rounds 2 & 3 which caused his swollen right eye to completely close, rendering him unable to continue.[71] This fight earned both participants Fight of the Night honors.[72]

Losing streak

[edit]

Ferguson was scheduled to face Khabib Nurmagomedov for the UFC Lightweight Championship on April 18, 2020, at UFC 249, however the fight was canceled after Nurmagomedov was unable to leave Russia due to restricted air travel as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.[73] Ferguson then agreed to compete for the Interim UFC Lightweight Championship against a late replacement in Justin Gaethje at the event.[74] On April 9, UFC president Dana White announced that this event was postponed[75] and the bout eventually took place on May 9, 2020.[76] He was outstruck by Gaethje for all five rounds, eventually losing the fight via TKO in the fifth round.[77] This fight earned both participants Fight of the Night honors.[78]

Ferguson faced Charles Oliveira on December 12, 2020, at UFC 256.[79] He lost the fight via unanimous decision after being dominated and controlled on the ground for most of the fight.[80]

Ferguson faced Beneil Dariush on May 15, 2021, at UFC 262.[81] He lost the fight via unanimous decision being once again controlled on the ground for the majority of the fight.[82]

Ferguson faced former Bellator Lightweight Champion Michael Chandler on May 7, 2022 at UFC 274.[83] Despite a strong first round, Ferguson lost the fight via knockout early in the second round.[84]

Ferguson was scheduled to return to the welterweight division to face Li Jingliang on September 10, 2022, in the co-main event of UFC 279.[85] However, Ferguson instead moved up to the main event to face Nate Diaz, after his original opponent Khamzat Chimaev was pulled from their fight due to missing weight.[86] Ferguson lost the fight via a guillotine choke submission in the fourth round.[87]

Ferguson returned to the lightweight division to face King Green at UFC 291 on July 29, 2023.[88] He lost the fight via technical submission due to an arm-triangle choke in the final seconds of the third round.[89]

Ferguson faced Paddy Pimblett on December 16, 2023, at UFC 296.[90] He lost the fight via unanimous decision.[91]

Ferguson faced Michael Chiesa in a welterweight bout on August 3, 2024 at UFC on ABC 7.[92] He lost the fight via a rear-naked choke submission in the first round.[93] With this eighth consecutive loss, Ferguson surpassed B.J. Penn and now holds the record for the longest losing streak in UFC history.[94]

Global Fight League

[edit]

On January 24, 2025, it was announced that Ferguson had parted ways with the UFC and signed with the Global Fight League.[95]

Ferguson was drafted by the GFL's Team Los Angeles the same day his signing was announced.[96] He was scheduled to face Dillon Danis on May 25, 2025 at GFL 2.[97] However, the first two GFL events were postponed indefinitely.[98]

Boxing career

[edit]

In January 2025, Ferguson was among names for a potential boxing bout against English megastar KSI after his bout with English footballer Wayne Bridge fell through.[99] Ferguson revealed he turned down the offer to face Dillon Danis on the then announced GFL event in May.[100]

Ferguson vs Papi

[edit]
Main article: Tony Ferguson vs Salt Papi

On July 5, 2025, Ferguson stated that he had a bout in boxing scheduled for August 30.[101] Two weeks later, it was announced that Ferguson would face Filipino influencer Salt Papi for the MFB interim middleweight title, headlining Misfits 22 – Ring of Thrones alongside Darren Till vs Luke Rockhold at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England.[102] Ferguson won the championship by technical knockout in the third round.[103]

Ferguson vs Spencer

[edit]

On November 4, Misfits Boxing co-president Mams Taylor announced that Ferguson would be returning to the ring in December to unify his interim title on the Misfits Mania – The Fight Before Christmas undercard.[104] On November 19, the bout was announced for December 20 at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in Dubai, UAE against Isle of Man influencer Warren Spencer.[105] On November 22, Taylor confirmed during an X Space that the MFB middleweight champion, Saudi influencer AnEsonGib, had relinquish his title therefore making Ferguson the new MFB middleweight champion. Spencer will be his first title defense as champion.[106]

Personal life

[edit]

Ferguson has two sons with his wife, Cristina Ferguson.[107] In March 2019, Cristina filed a restraining order against Tony, alleging uncharacteristic behavior such as severe paranoia, not sleeping for days, tearing apart their home fireplace, and believing that a tracking chip was inserted into his leg during reconstructive knee surgery. She did not allege physical abuse, and filed the restraining order as a precautionary measure to get him help for his mental state.[108][109] By April 2019, she had dropped the order, and he began to resume MMA.[110]

In the early hours of May 7, 2023, Ferguson was arrested in Hollywood, California and charged with driving under the influence after allegedly crashing his pickup truck into two other vehicles outside of a nightclub, causing his truck to roll over in the process. He was taken into custody and booked into the LAPD Hollywood police station where his bail was set at $30,000.[111] He was later released from custody on a personal recognizance bond.[112]

Fighting style

[edit]

Ferguson is known for his well-rounded style which includes unorthodox striking, exceptional cardio, sharp elbows, and proficiency in D'Arce chokes. During his peak, he achieved a 12-fight winning streak, finishing nine of his opponents. His aggressive fighting style, particularly his use of elbows, often left opponents bloodied and contributed to six "Fight of the Night" bonuses.[113]

Public appearance and cultural influences

[edit]

Ferguson is known as one of MMA's most eccentric personalities.[114] He constructed his own custom training apparatus at his house in Big Bear Lake, California and regularly posts videos of his unique workouts on his personal Instagram page. These include using a Wing Chun dummy,[115] smacking his arms and legs against metal poles to build bone strength, throwing baseballs off a pitcher's mound to build power for right-hand punches, swinging a hammer while balanced on a gym ball, and somersault jumps over tall stacks of gym mats.[116][117] A lot of people including fellow fighters have regularly commented on these unorthodox routines, and other fighters such as Belal Muhammad have even parodied Ferguson's training videos on their own personal social media pages or exaggerated them.[118] Ferguson has written on his Twitter account that he eschews sparring in training as he "finds it limits my creativity" when fighting.[119]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

Amateur wrestling

[edit]

Mixed martial arts

[edit]

Boxing

[edit]

Mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Professional record breakdown
36 matches 25 wins 11 losses
By knockout 12 2
By submission 8 4
By decision 5 5
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Loss 25–11 Michael Chiesa Submission (rear-naked choke) UFC on ABC: Sandhagen vs. Nurmagomedov August 3, 2024 1 3:44 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Welterweight bout.
Loss 25–10 Paddy Pimblett Decision (unanimous) UFC 296 December 16, 2023 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Loss 25–9 King Green Technical Submission (arm-triangle choke) UFC 291 July 29, 2023 3 4:54 Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
Loss 25–8 Nate Diaz Submission (guillotine choke) UFC 279 September 10, 2022 4 2:52 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Welterweight bout.
Loss 25–7 Michael Chandler KO (front kick) UFC 274 May 7, 2022 2 0:17 Phoenix, Arizona, United States
Loss 25–6 Beneil Dariush Decision (unanimous) UFC 262 May 15, 2021 3 5:00 Houston, Texas, United States
Loss 25–5 Charles Oliveira Decision (unanimous) UFC 256 December 12, 2020 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Loss 25–4 Justin Gaethje TKO (punch) UFC 249 May 9, 2020 5 3:39 Jacksonville, Florida, United States For the interim UFC Lightweight Championship. Fight of the Night.
Win 25–3 Donald Cerrone TKO (doctor stoppage) UFC 238 June 8, 2019 2 5:00 Chicago, Illinois, United States Fight of the Night.
Win 24–3 Anthony Pettis TKO (corner stoppage) UFC 229 October 6, 2018 2 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Fight of the Night.
Win 23–3 Kevin Lee Submission (triangle choke) UFC 216 October 7, 2017 3 4:02 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Won the interim UFC Lightweight Championship. Ferguson was stripped of the title on April 7, 2018 due to injury.
Win 22–3 Rafael dos Anjos Decision (unanimous) The Ultimate Fighter Latin America 3 Finale: dos Anjos vs. Ferguson November 5, 2016 5 5:00 Mexico City, Mexico Fight of the Night.
Win 21–3 Lando Vannata Submission (brabo choke) UFC Fight Night: McDonald vs. Lineker July 13, 2016 2 2:22 Sioux Falls, South Dakota, United States Fight of the Night.
Win 20–3 Edson Barboza Submission (brabo choke) The Ultimate Fighter: Team McGregor vs. Team Faber Finale December 11, 2015 2 2:54 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Ferguson was deducted one point in round one due to an illegal upkick. Performance of the Night. Fight of the Night.
Win 19–3 Josh Thomson Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Mir vs. Duffee July 15, 2015 3 5:00 San Diego, California, United States Performance of the Night.
Win 18–3 Gleison Tibau Submission (rear-naked choke) UFC 184 February 28, 2015 1 2:37 Los Angeles, California, United States Performance of the Night.
Win 17–3 Abel Trujillo Submission (rear-naked choke) UFC 181 December 6, 2014 2 4:19 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 16–3 Danny Castillo Decision (split) UFC 177 August 30, 2014 3 5:00 Sacramento, California, United States
Win 15–3 Katsunori Kikuno KO (punch) UFC 173 May 24, 2014 1 4:06 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 14–3 Mike Rio Submission (brabo choke) UFC 166 October 19, 2013 1 1:52 Houston, Texas, United States Submission of the Night.
Loss 13–3 Michael Johnson Decision (unanimous) UFC on Fox: Diaz vs. Miller May 5, 2012 3 5:00 East Rutherford, New Jersey, United States
Win 13–2 Yves Edwards Decision (unanimous) The Ultimate Fighter: Team Bisping vs. Team Miller Finale December 3, 2011 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 12–2 Aaron Riley TKO (jaw injury) UFC 135 September 24, 2011 1 5:00 Denver, Colorado, United States Return to Lightweight.
Win 11–2 Ramsey Nijem KO (punches) The Ultimate Fighter: Team Lesnar vs. Team dos Santos Finale June 4, 2011 1 3:54 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Won The Ultimate Fighter 13 Welterweight Tournament. Knockout of the Night.
Win 10–2 Brock Jardine TKO (punches) PureCombat 12: Champions for Children September 25, 2010 4 2:35 Clovis, California, United States Won the vacant PureCombat Welterweight Championship.
Win 9–2 David Gardner TKO (punches) CA Fight Syndicate: Battle of the 805 March 26, 2010 2 0:27 Ventura, California, United States Catchweight (158 lb) bout.
Win 8–2 Chris Kennedy TKO (doctor stoppage) National Fight Alliance MMA: Resurrection December 18, 2009 1 2:29 Ventura, California, United States
Loss 7–2 Jamie Toney Submission (triangle choke) National Fight Alliance MMA: MMA at the Hyatt 3 October 16, 2009 1 2:15 Westlake Village, California, United States
Win 7–1 James Fanshier Decision (unanimous) Rebel Fighter July 17, 2009 3 5:00 Placerville, California, United States
Win 6–1 Devin Benjamin TKO (punches and elbows) National Fight Alliance MMA: MMA at the Hyatt II May 28, 2009 1 0:51 Westlake Village, California, United States
Win 5–1 Daniel Hernandez TKO (punches) National Fight Alliance MMA: Riot at the Hyatt March 5, 2009 1 2:22 Westlake Village, California, United States Return to Welterweight.
Loss 4–1 Karen Darabedyan Decision (unanimous) All Star Boxing: Caged in the Cannon February 6, 2009 3 3:00 Montebello, California, United States Lightweight debut.
Win 4–0 Frank Park Submission (neck crank) Long Beach Fight Night 3 January 4, 2009 1 2:43 Long Beach, California, United States
Win 3–0 Joe Schilling Submission (rear-naked choke) Total Fighting Alliance 12 September 13, 2008 2 2:12 Long Beach, California, United States
Win 2–0 Brandon Adams TKO (punches) Total Fighting Alliance 11: Pounding at the Pyramid July 12, 2008 2 2:18 Long Beach, California, United States
Win 1–0 Steve Avalos TKO (submission to punches) California Xtreme Fighting: Anarchy at the Arena April 12, 2008 2 1:25 Upland, California, United States

[133]

Mixed martial arts exhibition record

[edit]
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Win 3–0 Chuck O'Neil TKO (punches) The Ultimate Fighter: Team Lesnar vs. Team dos Santos June 1, 2011 (airdate) 3 3:10 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States The Ultimate Fighter 13 Semi-Final round.
Win 2–0 Ryan McGillivray TKO (punches) May 25, 2011 (airdate) 1 0:46 The Ultimate Fighter 13 Quarter-Final round.
Win 1–0 Justin Edwards KO (upkick) May 4, 2011 (airdate) 1 3:56 The Ultimate Fighter 13 Preliminary round.

Boxing record

[edit]
1 fight 1 win 0 losses
By knockout 1 0
No. Result Record Opponent Type Round, time Date Age Location Notes
2 — — Warren Spencer — – (5) Dec 20, 2025 41 years, 311 days Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, Dubai, UAE Defending MFB middleweight title
1 Win 1–0 Salt Papi TKO 3 (5), 2:43 Aug 30, 2025 41 years, 199 days Manchester Arena, Manchester, England Won MFB interim middleweight title

Pay-per-view bouts

[edit]

MMA

[edit]
No. Event Fight Date Venue City PPV Buys
1 UFC 216 Ferguson vs. Lee October 7, 2017 T-Mobile Arena Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S 200,000[134]
2 UFC 249 Ferguson vs. Gaethje May 9, 2020 VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. 700,000[135]
3 UFC 279 Diaz vs. Ferguson September 10, 2022 T-Mobile Arena Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S Undisclosed[136]

Boxing

[edit]
No. Date Fight Billing Network Buys Revenue Source(s)
1 30 August 2025 Ferguson vs Papi Ring of Thrones DAZN Undisclosed — —
Total

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Tony Ferguson

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Tony Ferguson (born February 12, 1984) is an American professional mixed martial artist, best known for competing in the UFC's division under the nickname "El Cucuy" (The Boogeyman). Ferguson rose to prominence after winning Season 13 in 2011, earning a UFC contract and embarking on an impressive career marked by a 12-fight winning streak from 2013 to 2019, during which he captured the interim UFC Championship by submitting via rear-naked choke at in October 2017. His unorthodox fighting style, blending (from his NCAA Division I background at ), , and striking, has made him a fan favorite, with notable victories including TKOs over and , as well as knockouts against and . As of November 2025, Ferguson holds a MMA record of 25 wins (12 by /TKO, 8 by submission, 5 by decision) and 11 losses, with his most recent MMA bout a submission loss to in August 2024, extending his MMA losing streak to eight consecutive fights following defeats to top contenders like , , and . Despite recent setbacks, including a canceled superfight with in 2016 and health challenges, Ferguson's resilience and entertaining persona—in addition to a TKO win in his debut against Salt Papi in August 2025—have cemented his legacy as one of the most durable and unpredictable lightweights in UFC history.

Early life and amateur background

Childhood and family

Anthony Armand Ferguson Padilla was born on February 12, 1984, in , to a Mexican father and an American mother, instilling in him a strong Mexican-American cultural heritage from an early age. His biological father's Mexican roots influenced family traditions and identity, while his mother remarried soon after his birth to Armand Ferguson, a Scottish-American bar owner who adopted him and provided the surname by which he is known. Raised initially in Ventura County, young Tony experienced a close-knit family environment that emphasized discipline and athleticism, with his parents maintaining a "tight leash" to steer him away from trouble and foster resilience. At around age six, Ferguson's family relocated from Ventura County to Muskegon, Michigan, a move his parents made intentionally to offer him better opportunities and a structured upbringing in a Midwestern setting. This transition introduced him to harsher winters and new responsibilities, such as shoveling snow and gathering wood, which built his physical toughness and work ethic under his family's guidance. In Michigan, as the new kid in a small town, Ferguson faced challenges like being picked on by peers, but his mother and stepfather provided unwavering support, reassuring him with stories like "The Ugly Duckling" to encourage mental strength and perseverance. These early experiences in Ventura County and the subsequent adjustment in Michigan highlighted his innate athleticism, as he gravitated toward sports to channel his energy and build confidence amid family expectations of discipline. Ferguson's introduction to wrestling came shortly after the move, around age six, when his stepfather enrolled him in the sport to instill further discipline and provide an outlet for his competitive spirit. By middle school, he was actively competing, viewing wrestling not just as a physical pursuit but as a strategic game that aligned with his family's emphasis on goal-setting and adaptability. This early exposure, supported by his parents who acted as informal coaches, marked the beginning of a lifelong passion for combat sports, helping him overcome childhood through structured training and familial encouragement.

Education and wrestling career

Ferguson attended Muskegon Catholic Central High School in , where he excelled as a three-sport in football, , and wrestling. In wrestling, he earned three-time All-State honors and captured the Michigan state championship at 152 pounds during his senior year in 2002, contributing to his accumulation of 12 varsity letters across his sports. After high school, Ferguson pursued higher education and wrestling at the collegiate level, initially enrolling at Central Michigan University before transferring to Grand Valley State University; he also spent time at Muskegon Community College. At Grand Valley State, a Division II institution, he competed in the National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) and achieved significant success, earning two All-American honors and winning the national championship at 165 pounds in 2006. Following his college wrestling career, Ferguson relocated from back to —specifically the Oxnard area near Ventura—to be closer to his extended family, taking jobs in marketing, sales, and as a to support himself. His initial interest in sparked during a night shift when a customer, who was an MMA trainer at a local gym, handed him a and invited him to train, leading Ferguson to join the gym and begin amateur bouts shortly thereafter. This introduction, without prior formal coaching in MMA, marked the start of his transition from pure wrestling to the integrated demands of .

Professional MMA career

Pre-UFC fights

Ferguson made his professional debut on April 12, 2008, defeating Steve Avalos by TKO in the second round at Cage Xtreme Fighting's Anarchy at the Arena event in . Over the ensuing three years, he competed exclusively in regional promotions across , including Total Fighting Alliance, Long Beach Fight Night, and PureCombat, amassing a 10-2 record that showcased his developing prowess rooted in his background. Among his key victories were submission wins that highlighted his ground control, such as a first-round neck crank submission against Frank Park on January 4, 2009, at Long Beach Fight Night 3, and a second-round rear-naked choke over on September 13, 2008, at Total Fighting Alliance 12. Ferguson also secured multiple TKO finishes via strikes, including against Brandon Adams in the second round on July 12, 2008, at Total Fighting Alliance 11, and Brock Jardine in the fourth round on September 25, 2010, at PureCombat 12. His two losses during this stretch—a unanimous decision to on February 6, 2009, at Boxing's Caged in the Cannon, and a first-round submission to Jamie Toney on October 16, 2009, at No Holds Barred MMA 3—provided valuable experience against tested regional competitors.
DateOpponentResultMethodEventLocation
Apr 12, 2008Steve AvalosWinTKO (punches)CXF: Anarchy at the Arena
Jul 12, 2008Brandon AdamsWinTKO (punches)TFA 11
Sep 13, 2008Joe SchillingWinSub (RNC)TFA 12
Jan 4, 2009Frank ParkWinSub (neck crank)LBFN 3
Sep 25, 2010Brock JardineWinTKO (punches)PureCombat 12
During this formative phase, Ferguson shifted to full-time MMA training after holding jobs in , , and bartending, honing his striking and submission skills at local gyms to complement his wrestling foundation. This period solidified his reputation in the regional scene, setting the stage for national exposure.

The Ultimate Fighter

Tony Ferguson entered Season 13 in 2011 as a competitor with a professional record of 10-2, marking his qualification for the reality series after multiple prior applications. The season pitted Team Lesnar, coached by , against Team dos Santos, led by , focusing on up-and-coming vying for a UFC contract. Ferguson was selected as Team Lesnar's third pick, joining teammates including Chuck O'Neil, Charlie Rader, and Clay Harvison, in a house environment that amplified competitive pressures. Ferguson's tournament path began with a preliminary bout against Justin Edwards of Team dos Santos, where he secured a historic first-round via upkick at 3:56, the first such finish in TUF . In the quarterfinals, he dominated Ryan McGillivray with a first-round TKO via strikes at 0:45. The semifinals presented added tension as Ferguson faced teammate Chuck O'Neil, resulting in a grueling third-round TKO via strikes at 3:10 after a doctor's stoppage due to accumulated damage. On June 4, 2011, at 13 Finale in , Ferguson claimed the season's title and a UFC contract by Ramsey Nijem in the first round at 3:54 with a right hand, earning Knockout of the Night honors. , Ferguson's affable yet eccentric personality—rooted in his background as a and wrestler—earned him the nickname "El Cucuy" (the boogeyman), though it also sparked house dynamics, including pranks and friction, particularly during his intra-team semifinal bout with O'Neil. Throughout the competition, Ferguson exhibited resilience, learning from Lesnar's coaching while navigating the isolation and rivalries of the TUF house, which contributed to his personal and competitive growth.

UFC tenure

Ferguson entered the UFC as the winner of Season 13 in the division, defeating by first-round knockout at 13 Finale on June 4, 2011. Following his debut, he secured early victories, including a doctor's stoppage TKO against Aaron Riley at on September 24, 2011, and a unanimous decision win over at 14 Finale on December 3, 2011. However, he suffered his first UFC setback, a unanimous decision loss to Michael Johnson at UFC on Fox: Diaz vs. Miller on May 5, 2012. Rebounding strongly, Ferguson embarked on a remarkable 12-fight winning streak from 2013 to 2019, the longest in UFC history at the time. Key victories during this period included a second-round D'Arce choke submission of at 22 Finale on December 11, 2015, a over former champion at UFC Fight Night: Dos Anjos vs. Ferguson on November 5, 2016, and a third-round triangle choke submission of to capture the interim UFC Championship at on October 7, 2017. He headlined in his title-winning effort. The streak continued with a second-round corner stoppage TKO of at on October 6, 2018, and a second-round doctor's stoppage TKO against at on June 8, 2019, where he also headlined. The highly anticipated matchup with was scheduled five times between 2015 and 2020 but canceled each time for various reasons, including injuries to both fighters and the . During Ferguson's interim title reign (2017-2020), two unification bouts were attempted but fell through: Ferguson withdrew from in 2018 due to a knee injury, and in 2020 was canceled due to the pandemic. These high-profile matchups were slated to headline pay-per-view events, building significant anticipation. The streak ended dramatically in a fifth-round TKO loss to in their interim title unification fight, headlining on May 9, 2020. Subsequently, Ferguson endured an eight-fight losing skid from 2020 to 2024, including a defeat to at on December 12, 2020; a second-round via front kick from at on May 7, 2022; a fourth-round guillotine submission to at on September 10, 2022; a third-round arm-triangle choke to Bobby Green (substituting for ) at on July 29, 2023; a loss to at on December 16, 2023; and a first-round rear-naked choke submission against at UFC on ABC: Sandhagen vs. Nurmagomedov on August 3, 2024. This skid set the UFC record for the longest by a former champion. On January 24, 2025, following these defeats, the UFC announced Ferguson's release from the promotion after 24 appearances.

Post-UFC transition

On January 24, 2025, the UFC released Tony Ferguson after 14 years with the promotion and 24 fights, marking the end of a significant chapter in his professional MMA career. Upon his release, Ferguson signed with the Global Fight League (GFL), transitioning to the new promotion for future MMA competitions. The decision stemmed from his age of 41, an eight-fight that set a UFC record for consecutive defeats, and the organization's roster management strategies amid a crowded and divisions. This move came shortly after his submission loss to at UFC on ABC 7 in August 2024, which completed the skid. During his initial free agency period, Ferguson used social media to signal his intent to continue fighting, posting on January 2, 2025, that "fight news" was imminent and emphasizing "new missions" for the year ahead, while firmly rejecting retirement rumors. He later clarified in interviews that a post-fight gesture of removing his glove after the Chiesa bout had been misinterpreted as a retirement tease, reiterating his determination to seek fresh opportunities in combat sports. Ferguson has since reflected on the transition as a challenging yet liberating phase, acknowledging instances of complacency in his preparation and training during his later UFC years that contributed to his decline. He described the emotional weight of the release as "the hardest f***ing thing," yet expressed relief and a renewed mental focus, viewing it as a mutual agreement with UFC executives and that allowed him to prioritize self-improvement without bitterness. This period highlighted his resilient mindset, as he emphasized indifference to external criticism while gearing up for the next stage of his career.

Global Fight League involvement

Signing and drafting

On January 24, 2025, the Global Fight League (GFL) announced that Tony Ferguson had signed with the promotion, just hours after reports emerged of his release from the UFC following an eight-fight losing streak. The signing positioned Ferguson for participation in GFL's inaugural draft later that evening, a key element of the promotion's team-based format where fighters are allocated to one of six international squads competing in a league structure. During the live draft broadcast, Ferguson was selected third overall by Team Los Angeles in the lightweight division, joining other notable picks like Sage Northcutt and Aspen Ladd on the roster. Ferguson's contract with GFL represents a multi-year commitment tailored to the league's collaborative team environment, allowing him to compete in division-specific bouts while contributing to overall team standings in the 2025 season. Following the draft, he relocated his training base to align with Team Los Angeles' preparation regimen, focusing on integrated camps that emphasize team strategy and recovery protocols ahead of the league's debut events.

Competitions and future outlook

As of November 2025, Tony Ferguson has not yet competed in any Global Fight League (GFL) events, following the cancellation of the promotion's inaugural double-header scheduled for May 24-25, 2025, at the Shrine Auditorium in . The planned bout against , which was set to headline GFL 2 on May 25, was among the scrapped matchups due to financial difficulties within the upstart organization. In October 2025, GFL announced it is "hard at work" on relaunch plans for 2026, with teasers including potential revivals of high-profile fights like Ferguson versus Danis, signaling a delayed but ongoing commitment to its roster. The GFL's team-based format marks a significant departure from the UFC's individual promotion model, featuring six city-affiliated squads—such as Team Los Angeles, to which Ferguson was drafted in January 2025—that compete in a points-driven league structure across weight classes to accumulate victories for their franchises. Ferguson, who was allocated to Team Los Angeles alongside other veterans, has expressed enthusiasm for this innovative setup, noting in early 2025 that the opportunity to fight in a fresh, team-oriented environment reignited his passion for MMA after passing on a lucrative offer against . He reiterated in August 2025 that the GFL venture "is not done," highlighting his excitement for the promotional model's potential despite setbacks. Looking ahead, Ferguson has teased an MMA return in early 2026 under the GFL banner, with ongoing discussions centered on rescheduling his matchup with Danis as a marquee attraction. Preparations include intensified to rebuild momentum, drawing on recent experience that Ferguson credits with "lighting a new fire" under him and restoring his competitive edge. While specific coaching details remain unconfirmed for the GFL era, his prior interest in collaborating with veteran trainers like underscores a focus on strategic refinement ahead of contention opportunities within the league's division. Anticipated challenges for Ferguson in the GFL include his 41, which could impact recovery and performance following an eight-fight losing streak that preceded his UFC departure, as well as the league's nascent status amid ongoing financial and organizational hurdles that delayed its debut. Despite these obstacles, the team format offers a supportive framework for veteran integration, potentially aiding Ferguson's streak recovery through collaborative training and shared roster incentives.

Boxing career

Debut and early bouts

Tony Ferguson's professional boxing debut occurred on August 30, 2025, at Misfits Boxing 22 in Manchester, England, where he faced influencer and crossover fighter Salt Papi, whose real name is Nathaniel Bustamante. Following his departure from the UFC earlier in 2025, Ferguson pivoted to boxing under the Misfits promotion, known for its high-profile influencer bouts and celebrity crossovers. His preparation involved adapting MMA grappling drills to pure striking, including blindfolded sparring sessions and an intense "Hell Week" of high-intensity interval training focused on explosive movements, without extreme starvation methods. Ferguson cut to the middleweight division at 160 pounds, a step up from his longtime lightweight frame in MMA, amid significant promotional hype that positioned the matchup as a redemption opportunity for the 41-year-old veteran. The three-round bout showcased Ferguson's relentless pressure early, with Salt Papi landing sharper counters in the opening rounds to build momentum. However, Ferguson mounted a barrage of punches in the third round, overwhelming his opponent and prompting referee intervention at 2:43 for a technical knockout victory via unanswered strikes. This win marked Ferguson's first victory in any since 2019, snapping an eight-fight losing streak that had spanned MMA and other disciplines. In the aftermath, Ferguson was awarded the interim Misfits Middleweight Championship, a belt that highlighted his immediate impact in the promotion despite the fight's lower competitive tier compared to his UFC days. The stoppage drew controversy, with Salt Papi claiming the referee was biased and that fans were "robbed" of a full fight, as he felt capable of continuing. Within the MMA community, reactions were largely supportive, with many praising Ferguson's resilience and emotional post-fight interview where he emphasized the personal significance of ending his skid, though some noted the opponent's influencer background tempered perceptions of the achievement.

Title pursuits and recent matches

Ferguson's professional boxing journey advanced significantly with his debut victory on August 30, 2025, at Misfits Boxing 22, where he secured the Misfits Boxing Interim Championship via third-round TKO against influencer Nathaniel "Salt Papi" Bustamante, marking a successful transition from MMA and ending an eight-fight . Building on this foundation, Ferguson is scheduled to pursue full unification of the Misfits title on December 20, 2025, at Misfits Mania at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in , facing AnEsonGib in a high-profile bout that promoters have confirmed as a title unification opportunity. No additional matches occurred for Ferguson between August and November 2025, allowing focused preparation for this contest. In his debut, Ferguson's adaptation from MMA striking—emphasizing and clinch work—to pure rules was evident through intensive training at Ricky Hatton's gym, where he completed extended 15-round sessions to refine footwork, head movement, and punch combinations without the threat of takedowns. The crowd erupted in cheers during his stoppage win, reflecting strong fan support for the 41-year-old veteran's resilience in an influencer-driven event that reportedly generated substantial revenue, highlighting the financial appeal of crossover bouts. Amid speculation about his career trajectory following the UFC departure, Ferguson has affirmed his commitment to boxing pursuits like the upcoming unification.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Tony Ferguson married Cristina Servin in June 2012 after meeting her in 2009 during the early stages of his professional MMA career. Servin, who studied at , and has a background in modeling, became Ferguson's of emotional support as he navigated the challenges of breaking into the UFC, including his participation in Season 13 in 2011. The couple shares two sons: their first child, Armand Anthony Ferguson, born on April 28, 2016, and their second, Angel Anthony Ferguson, born on May 31, 2021. Ferguson has often credited his family with providing stability amid the rigors of training and competition, noting in interviews that Servin's encouragement helped him maintain focus during high-stakes periods like his interim run. The family has made joint appearances at UFC events and awards shows, such as the Fighters Only World Awards, where they presented a . Fame from Ferguson's UFC success brought increased public scrutiny to their home life, occasionally disrupting but strengthening their bond through shared resilience. As of 2024, the couple continues to prioritize co-parenting and mutual support, with Servin actively involved in family activities alongside Ferguson's evolving combat sports endeavors. Ferguson has openly discussed his struggles, including a 2011 hospitalization in following an outburst, where he was prescribed , an medication used to treat conditions such as and . In early 2019, he experienced multiple episodes of erratic behavior and , including delusions about devices in household appliances and unfounded fears of poisoning or flooding, leading to his voluntary admission to Keck Medical Center on February 19 for and support. These incidents prompted his wife, , to file for a temporary restraining order on March 13, citing a pattern of "mental breaks" that she attributed in part to the aftereffects of a severe sustained in April 2018; the order was later dropped in April 2019 after Ferguson began seeing a and committing to treatment. Ferguson's physical health has been marked by recurrent injuries that forced the cancellation of several high-profile bouts. In December 2015, he withdrew from a scheduled fight against at 22 Finale due to blood and fluid accumulation in his lungs. A torn lateral collateral ligament in his knee, suffered in a freak accident during media obligations in April 2018, sidelined him from and required surgery, delaying his return for over a year. He has also endured multiple concussions from knockout losses, including a 2022 defeat to that resulted in temporary memory loss and a visit, though CT scans were negative. Legally, Ferguson faced scrutiny in 2019 amid his episodes, with police conducting at least five welfare checks at his home between January and March, including one on February 19 after reports of him damaging property and another on March 13 following concerns for his son's safety. In May 2023, he was arrested in Hollywood on suspicion of misdemeanor DUI after a multi-vehicle crash involving his truck, but the charge was dismissed in November 2023 following a deal to a lesser offense, resulting in and . As of 2025, following his release from the UFC in January 2025, Ferguson has emphasized a focus on recovery and wellness, stating he took a deliberate break to rest—his first significant hiatus since 2012—and now feels "excellent" and "phenomenal" at age 41, dismissing public concerns about cumulative damage from his career.

Fighting style and techniques

Core strengths and strategies

Tony Ferguson's grappling prowess stems from his opportunistic submission hunting, particularly with chokes that capitalize on transitions and scrambles. He has secured multiple victories via the D'Arce choke, a technique he has mastered to finish opponents like Mike Rio in under two minutes and in the second round. His use of the further highlights this strength, often applied from dominant positions or during defensive recoveries, contributing to eight submission wins in his professional career. Ferguson's wrestling background from his amateur days at underpins this grappling base, allowing him to control positioning before locking in chokes. In striking, Ferguson employs unorthodox flurries and spinning attacks that disrupt opponents' rhythm, often delivering combinations from low stances or off-balance angles to close distance aggressively. His ground-and-pound from top control complements this, where he rains down elbows and punches while transitioning to submissions, maintaining offensive pressure even in exchanges. This approach prioritizes volume over precision, using long reach to overwhelm at close range. Ferguson's exceptional cardio and enable him to sustain a high pace across five-round fights, absorbing significant punishment while continuing to advance. He has demonstrated this by outlasting durable opponents through relentless output, recovering from heavy strikes to maintain effectiveness late in bouts. Strategically, Ferguson favors pressure fighting, using clinch work with hand-fighting and short elbows to wear down foes and set up takedowns or strikes. He exploits opponent fatigue by escalating aggression as rounds progress, forcing errors in transitions where his chokes prove lethal. This combination of constant forward movement and adaptive opportunism defines his core approach in the lightweight division.

Evolution and adaptations

In the early stages of his professional career from 2011 to 2017, Tony Ferguson heavily relied on his prowess, emphasizing submissions and wrestling takedowns to control opponents on the ground. This approach stemmed from his background and was evident in his string of victories, where he secured multiple submission wins, including rear-naked chokes and guillotines, against fighters like . Ferguson's strategy during this period focused on closing distance quickly to initiate clinches and takedowns, minimizing exposure to striking exchanges. During his peak UFC tenure from 2017 to 2019, Ferguson began incorporating enhanced and elements into his arsenal, transitioning toward more stand-up oriented battles while retaining his foundational skills. This evolution was particularly noticeable in bouts against and , where he showcased improved head movement, crisp combinations, and leg kicks to set up takedowns, allowing him to engage in prolonged striking wars without solely depending on ground control. The shift reflected adaptations to face elite strikers, blending his core wrestling base with influences honed through training camps. From 2020 to 2024, as Ferguson entered a perceived decline phase marked by consecutive losses, his style revealed increased vulnerability to knockouts, prompting attempts to revert to defensive wrestling to mitigate striking deficits. Against opponents like and , he struggled with takedown defense and absorption of heavy shots, leading to finishes via strikes, which highlighted the toll of age and accumulated damage on his once-durable chin. Efforts to adapt included more cautious entries into grapples and clinch work for damage control, though these were less effective against faster, power-punching adversaries. Post-2024, following his UFC release, Ferguson adapted his skill set for , emphasizing pure punch combinations and footwork in exhibition matches, while preparing for 2025 Global Fight League (GFL) events under hybrid rules that blend MMA and elements. In his boxing debut against Salt Papi (Nathaniel Bustamante) on August 30, 2025, he won by TKO in the third round, focusing on jabs and hooks, drawing on his evolved stand-up to avoid scenarios entirely. For GFL, training has involved integrating defensive wrestling bursts with flurries to suit the promotion's unique format.

Public persona and cultural impact

Media appearances

Ferguson gained initial media exposure through his victory on the thirteenth season of in 2011, which launched his professional UFC career. Beyond that reality competition, he has appeared on several podcasts to discuss his fighting style, career challenges, and personal insights. In May 2021, he joined the official UFC podcast Unfiltered, sharing thoughts on his division matchups alongside guests and actor . In February 2024, Ferguson guested on the Jaxxon Podcast, where he addressed speculation about retirement, his unresolved rivalry with Khabib Nurmagomedov, and his mindset heading into future bouts. He has also featured on The Ariel Helwani Show in March 2025, reflecting on his UFC release and plans to compete in Global Fight League events. Ferguson's on-screen presence extends to limited acting roles. He has additionally contributed to wrestling-themed documentaries, highlighting his amateur background and grappling techniques. During his UFC tenure, Ferguson partnered with as part of the organization's exclusive apparel sponsorship deal from 2015 to 2020, which provided fighters with branded gear for events and training. Other endorsements included giant and combat sports equipment brand RDX Sports, which supported his marketability through promotional campaigns and product lines. Following his UFC departure in early 2025, Ferguson ventured into with a debut under the Misfits Boxing promotion in August, aligning with new promotional partnerships outside traditional MMA. Ferguson maintains a prominent social media footprint on Instagram, where his unconventional antics—such as improvised training drills and humorous interactions—have produced numerous viral clips viewed millions of times. Notable examples include footage from his 2023 "Hell Week" endurance challenge with trainer David Goggins, which highlighted his relentless work ethic and drew widespread admiration from fans and peers.

Fan influence and memes

Tony Ferguson's nickname "El Cucuy," meaning "The Boogeyman" in Spanish, has become central to his meme-worthy persona, portraying him as an unpredictable and intimidating force in MMA that captivates fans with its blend of relentless aggression and eccentricity. This image originated from his unorthodox fighting style and high-energy antics, evolving into viral memes that highlight his boogeyman-like dominance during his 12-fight , where he delivered violent, highlight-reel finishes. Fans amplified this through online edits and clips emphasizing his custom training methods, such as hanging from tree branches or bizarre warm-ups, turning "El Cucuy" into a symbol of MMA's wild side. His erratic post-fight interviews further fueled culture, with rambling, offbeat responses—like comparing opponents to mythical creatures or delivering motivational tangents—that went viral for their raw, unfiltered energy. These moments, often shared across platforms, showcased Ferguson's eccentric personal life as prime material, endearing him to audiences who appreciate his unscripted authenticity amid the sport's intensity. Ferguson cultivated a dedicated fan base drawn to his resilience, particularly during his eight-fight losing streak from 2020 to 2024, where supporters rallied behind his refusal to retire despite mounting defeats against top competition. This loyalty manifested in campaigns urging the UFC to book "Ferguson vs. Anyone," reflecting fans' desire to see him compete and reclaim momentum, even as critics called for his exit from the sport. His grew from this narrative, with admirers praising his unbreakable spirit as a testament to MMA's demanding nature. In pop culture, Ferguson's influence extended through references to his chaotic charisma, though his 2025 boxing resurgence reignited widespread hype and memes celebrating his comeback. Ending his with a TKO victory over influencer "Salt Papi" at Misfits Boxing's MF & x Series 22 earned him the Interim title and sparked joyous fan reactions online, framing him as a resilient icon defying odds. Ultimately, Ferguson's legacy in fan discussions symbolizes MMA's mental and physical toll, balanced by his comeback ethos that inspires admiration for enduring adversity while embodying the sport's unyielding pursuit of redemption.

Championships and accomplishments

Amateur achievements

Ferguson excelled in wrestling during his high school years at Muskegon Catholic Central High School in , where he earned three-time All-State honors. As a senior in 2002, he captured the MHSAA Division IV state championship at 152 pounds, compiling an impressive 47-2 record for the season and serving as team captain. Transitioning to college, Ferguson competed for in the (NCWA), a club-level division. In 2006, he won the NCWA at 165 pounds, securing All-American status and highlighting his technical prowess in freestyle and folkstyle wrestling. He placed third at the same event in 2007 at 184 pounds, further solidifying his reputation as a standout amateur competitor. These accomplishments earned Ferguson a wrestling to Grand Valley State, providing a foundation of discipline and athletic recognition that influenced his shift to after college, where he began training in upon returning to his birthplace region.

Professional titles and awards

Tony Ferguson captured the UFC Interim on October 7, 2017, by submitting via rear-naked choke in the third round at , holding the title until April 2018 when it was vacated due to injury. This victory marked his ascent to the top of the division, where he was recognized as the #1 ranked contender prior to and during his reign. Throughout his UFC career, Ferguson earned multiple post-fight bonuses for his exciting performances, including several Fight of the Night awards. Notable examples include his December 11, 2015, submission victory over at 22 Finale, which was awarded Fight of the Night, and his November 5, 2016, unanimous decision win against at UFC Fight Night 98, also earning Fight of the Night honors. He secured Submission of the Night bonuses on multiple occasions, such as his October 19, 2013, rear-naked choke finish of Mike Rio at UFC 166. In , Ferguson won the Misfits Interim Championship on August 30, 2025, defeating Salt Papi via third-round TKO at Misfits 22. He is scheduled to unify the title at Misfits 23 on December 20, 2025, in .

Professional records

MMA fight record

Tony Ferguson maintains a professional record of 25–11. Of these, 12 wins have been by or technical , 8 by submission, and 5 by decision. This record excludes exhibition bouts from Season 13. The table below details all professional fights in reverse chronological order (most recent first).
ResultOpponentEventDateMethodRoundTime
LossMichael ChiesaUFC on ABC 7: Sandhagen vs. NurmagomedovAugust 3, 2024Submission (rear-naked choke)13:44
LossPaddy PimblettUFC 296: Edwards vs. CovingtonDecember 16, 2023Decision (unanimous)35:00
LossBobby GreenUFC 291: Poirier vs. Gaethje 2July 29, 2023Technical submission (arm-triangle)34:54
LossNate DiazUFC 279: Diaz vs. FergusonSeptember 10, 2022Submission (guillotine choke)42:52
LossMichael ChandlerUFC 274: Oliveira vs. GaethjeMay 7, 2022KO (front kick)20:17
LossBeneil DariushUFC 262: Oliveira vs. ChandlerMay 15, 2021Decision (unanimous)35:00
LossCharles OliveiraUFC 256: Figueiredo vs. MorenoDecember 12, 2020Decision (unanimous)35:00
LossJustin GaethjeUFC 249: Ferguson vs. GaethjeMay 9, 2020TKO (punches)53:39
WinDonald CerroneUFC 238: Cejudo vs. MoraesJune 8, 2019TKO (doctor stoppage)25:00
WinAnthony PettisUFC 229: Nurmagomedov vs. McGregorOctober 6, 2018TKO (corner stoppage)25:00
WinKevin LeeUFC 216: Ferguson vs. LeeOctober 7, 2017Submission (triangle choke)34:02
WinRafael dos AnjosUFC Fight Night 98: Dos Anjos vs. FergusonNovember 5, 2016Decision (unanimous)55:00
WinLando VannataUFC Fight Night 91: McDonald vs. LinekerJuly 13, 2016Submission (brabo choke)22:22
WinEdson BarbozaUFC Fight Night 82: Hendricks vs. ThompsonDecember 11, 2015Submission (brabo choke)22:54
WinJosh ThomsonUFC Fight Night 71: Mir vs. DuffeeJuly 15, 2015Decision (unanimous)35:00
WinGleison TibauUFC 184: Rousey vs. ZinganoFebruary 28, 2015Submission (rear-naked choke)12:37
WinAbel TrujilloUFC 181: Hendricks vs. Lawler 2December 6, 2014Submission (rear-naked choke)24:19
WinDanny CastilloUFC 177: Dillashaw vs. SotoAugust 30, 2014Decision (split)35:00
WinKatsunori KikunoUFC 173: Barao vs. DillashawMay 24, 2014KO (punch)14:06
WinMike RioUFC 166: Velasquez vs. dos Santos 3October 19, 2013Submission (brabo choke)11:52
LossMichael JohnsonUFC on Fox 3: Diaz vs. MillerMay 5, 2012Decision (unanimous)35:00
WinYves EdwardsUFC 140: The Ultimate Fighter 14 FinaleDecember 3, 2011Decision (unanimous)35:00
WinAaron RileyUFC 135: Jones vs. RampageSeptember 24, 2011TKO (jaw injury)15:00
WinRamsey NijemUFC 133: The Ultimate Fighter 13 FinaleJune 4, 2011KO (punches)13:54
WinBrock JardinePureCombat 12: Champions for ChildrenSeptember 25, 2010TKO (punches)42:35
WinDavid GardnerCA Fight Syndicate: Battle of the 805March 26, 2010TKO (punches)21:52
WinChris KennedyNational Fight Alliance: ResurrectionDecember 18, 2009TKO (doctor stoppage)12:29
LossJamie ToneyNational Fight Alliance: MMA at the Hyatt 3October 16, 2009Submission (triangle choke)12:15
WinJames FanshierRebel Fight 1July 17, 2009Decision (unanimous)35:00
WinDevin BenjaminNational Fight Alliance: MMA at the Hyatt 2May 28, 2009TKO (punches and elbows)11:08
WinDaniel HernandezNational Fight Alliance: Riot at the HyattMarch 5, 2009TKO (punches)12:22
LossKaren DarabedyanAll Star Boxing vs. K-1: Caged in the CannonFebruary 6, 2009Decision (unanimous)33:00
WinFrank ParkLong Beach Fight Night 3January 4, 2009Submission (neck crank)12:43
WinJoe SchillingTotal Fighting Alliance 12September 13, 2008Submission (rear-naked choke)22:12
WinBrandon AdamsTotal Fighting Alliance 11: Pounding at the PyramidJuly 12, 2008TKO (punches)22:18
WinSteve AvalosCXF 5: Anarchy at the ArenaApril 12, 2008TKO (punches)21:25

Boxing fight record

Tony Ferguson's professional record as of November 2025 stands at 1-0, featuring one win by technical knockout in his debut bout for the interim Misfits middleweight title.
OpponentEventDateResultMethodRound, Time
Salt PapiMisfits Boxing 22August 30, 2025WinTKO (punches)3, 2:43
Ferguson is scheduled to make his second professional boxing appearance on December 20, 2025, in a unification bout against Anesongib for the Misfits Boxing title at Misfits Boxing 23 in , with the outcome pending.

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  41. https://www.mmafighting.com/boxing/400010/tony-ferguson-reinvigorated-after-boxing-lit-a-new-fire-underneath-me-that-i-absolutely-fcking-needed
  42. https://www.facebook.com/MMAOnPoint/posts/tony-ferguson-is-looking-to-return-in-the-beginning-of-2025-and-aims-to-train-wi/1102897298504194/
  43. https://rg.org/news/mma/matthew-wagy-talks-training-coaching-and-new-opportunities
  44. https://www.dazn.com/en-US/news/boxing/tony-ferguson-vs-salt-papi-fight-highlights-misfits-22-dazn/1qemlc10ft7bt1mt139e9heqfh
  45. https://www.mmafighting.com/boxing/399997/tony-ferguson-addresses-ufc-exit-if-he-ever-plans-to-return-to-mma-i-dont-give-a-fck-what-anybody-thinks-about-me
  46. https://www.dazn.com/en-US/news/boxing/tony-ferguson-blindfold-hell-week-crazy-training-misfits/1pjdopcijzho31f53gcmmv6t3k
  47. https://sports.yahoo.com/boxing/breaking-news/article/tony-ferguson-stops-salt-papi-in-major-misfits-boxing-22-upset-to-end-nightmare-losing-streak-221821997.html
  48. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2025/08/30/misfits-boxing-22-results-tony-ferguson-vs-salt-papi/85913324007/
  49. https://www.bjpenn.com/boxing-news/salt-papi-says-fans-were-robbed-during-tony-ferguson-fight-at-misfits-boxing-22-due-to-biased-referee/
  50. https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2025/08/31/misfits-boxing-tony-ferguson-happy-end-long-losing-skid-debut-mma-ufc/85921157007/
  51. https://talksport.com/mma/3702583/ufc-tony-ferguson-boxing-return/
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  53. https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/36255072/tony-ferguson-salt-papi-date-fight-time-card-misfits-boxing/
  54. https://www.mmamania.com/boxing/400570/tony-ferguson-returns-unifying-belt-misfits-boxing-dec-20
  55. https://ytboxrec.com/tag/youtube-boxing/
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  57. https://www.lowkickmma.com/tony-ferguson-puts-in-grueling-15-round-session-at-ricky-hattons-gym-ahead-of-boxing-debut/
  58. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GbfGhOLtVjM
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  62. https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/tony-ferguson-kids
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  64. https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/26907531/family-reunited-ahead-ufc-return
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  66. https://firstsportz.com/ufc-news-tony-ferguson-wife/
  67. https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/3/15/18267834/tony-fergusons-wife-details-ufc-stars-alleged-frightening-behavior-taking-of-son-in-court-filing
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  94. https://boxrec.com/en/box-pro/1180510
  95. https://middleeasy.com/results/tony-ferguson-vs-salt-papi-misfits-boxing-22-highlights/
  96. https://www.instagram.com/p/DQo4nWCDJix/
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