UFC President Dana White is pushing for Tony Ferguson to retire following his next fight, marking the end of a storied career. Ferguson, once a dominant force in the lightweight division with a 12-fight winning streak, has now suffered seven consecutive losses. His upcoming bout against Michael Chiesa at UFC on ABC 7 on August 3rd at Yas Island in Abu Dhabi could be his last.

Career Downturn and Recent Performances

Ferguson’s career has taken a significant downturn. Despite facing top-tier opponents such as Nate Diaz, Michael Chandler, Justin Gaethje, and Charles Oliveira, his performance has noticeably declined. His last victory came against Donald Cerrone in June 2019. White has previously suggested retirement for Ferguson, but his stance has become more pressing as Ferguson’s losing streak continues.

White’s Call for Retirement

At the UFC 296 post-fight press conference, White reiterated his desire to see Ferguson retire. “I would love to see Tony retire,” White stated, emphasizing the physical toll the fights have taken on Ferguson. He praised Ferguson’s resilience and career achievements but stressed that it’s time for him to consider stepping away from the sport.

Potential Record and Upcoming Fight

If Ferguson loses to Chiesa, he will break the UFC record for the longest losing streak, a record he currently shares with B.J. Penn. This fight, therefore, holds significant weight for Ferguson’s legacy. Despite his current form, Ferguson remains passionate about fighting and has repeatedly stated his unwillingness to retire.

TRENDING:

Conclusion

White’s insistence on Ferguson’s retirement stems from concern for the fighter’s well-being and a recognition of his contributions to the sport. As Ferguson prepares for his fight against Chiesa, the MMA community will be watching closely to see if this bout will indeed mark the end of his career in the octagon.

For more details, visit MMAnytt.se