Pimblett Skeptical of Ferguson’s Chances at UFC 296
Paddy Pimblett, a rising star in the UFC, is set to face Tony Ferguson, a former lightweight powerhouse, at UFC 296 on Dec. 16 in Las Vegas. Pimblett (20-3 MMA, 4-0 UFC) acknowledges the online speculation around Ferguson (25-9 MMA, 15-7 UFC), who is on a six-fight losing streak, including four finishes. Despite Ferguson’s efforts to rejuvenate his career, including training with retired U.S. Navy SEAL David Goggins, Pimblett remains unconvinced of its effectiveness.
Pimblett sees the fight as a no-win situation for himself. He feels that a loss to Ferguson would be criticized heavily, while a win might be discounted due to Ferguson’s recent performance. Pimblett, on a six-fight winning streak, including a co
ntentious decision over Jared Gordon at UFC 282, looks forward to a memorable battle.
Ferguson’s training with Goggins, known for his mental and physical endurance training, has been labeled as futile by Pimblett. He believes Ferguson’s struggles are not due to a lack of mental strength or cardio, but rather age-related decline in athleticism and speed. Pimblett points to Ferguson’s past defeats, including those against Justin Gaethje and Michael Chandler, as indicators of his waning capabilities.
Pimblett remains focused on UFC 296, prepared for a challenging fight against Ferguson, but questions the impact of Ferguson’s current training approach.