After nearly 14 years with the UFC, former interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson is embarking on a new chapter in his storied career.
Ferguson (25-11 MMA, 15-9 UFC), who rose to fame as the winner of “The Ultimate Fighter” reality series, has parted ways with the UFC and signed with the Global Fight League (GFL), a newly launched team-format MMA promotion.
Multiple sources confirmed the split and Ferguson's decision to join GFL, which is set to debut later in 2025.
The announcement comes just ahead of GFL's inaugural draft, scheduled for Friday at 8 p.m. ET. Ferguson is one of the high-profile names eligible for selection, with former foe Kevin Lee (19-8) already expressing interest in facing him again.
Lee, who also signed with GFL, called out Ferguson for a rematch to avenge his submission loss in their 2017 interim lightweight title fight at UFC 216.
Ferguson, 40, leaves the UFC on an eight-fight losing streak, capped by a submission loss to Michael Chiesa in August 2024 at UFC on ABC 7. Despite his recent struggles, Ferguson is confident he still has plenty to offer.
UFC CEO Dana White publicly urged him to consider retirement, but the man known as “El Cucuy” remains steadfast in his belief that his fighting career isn’t over.
Once a dominant force in the UFC, Ferguson held one of the longest winning streaks in the promotion’s history with 12 consecutive victories. His unorthodox fighting style, iron will, and entertaining bouts made him a fan favorite and one of the most respected fighters in the sport.
As Ferguson transitions to GFL, his future depends on Friday’s draft. If selected by a team, he will join the league’s unique roster and team-based competition structure. If not, he will remain a free agent.
GFL promises to bring a fresh dynamic to MMA with its team-oriented format, and Ferguson’s involvement adds immediate star power to the upstart promotion.
Whether he can reclaim his winning ways remains to be seen, but fans of “El Cucuy” can look forward to seeing him in action once again.
Comentários