Tony Ferguson's Emotional Departure from UFC

Tony Ferguson recently appeared on The Ariel Helwani Show to discuss his release from the UFC, a moment that carried significant emotional weight for the fighter. Around the 3:20 timestamp, Ferguson shared his feelings about leaving the organization after a long tenure, describing the experience as deeply personal and challenging. He reflected on the highs and lows of his career with the UFC, acknowledging the impact it had on his life and professional journey. Ferguson’s candidness revealed the struggles of transitioning away from a promotion where he had built much of his legacy as a former interim lightweight champion.

Plans to Fight Dillon Danis in GFL

Shifting focus to his future, Ferguson discussed his upcoming bout with Dillon Danis under the Global Fight League (GFL) banner, as highlighted near the 1:00 mark of the video. He expressed determination to step into the cage against Danis, viewing the fight as an opportunity to continue his career on his terms. Ferguson elaborated on his preparation and mindset for this matchup, emphasizing his commitment to proving himself outside the UFC. The conversation underscored his eagerness to face new challenges in a different promotion and against a controversial opponent like Danis.

Turning Down a Fight with KSI

Also at the 1:00 point in the discussion, Ferguson revealed that he rejected a fight offer from KSI, the popular YouTuber-turned-boxer. He explained his reasoning behind the decision, prioritizing matchups that align with his goals as a professional fighter over high-profile crossover bouts. Ferguson’s choice reflects his focus on maintaining a career rooted in traditional combat sports rather than engaging in exhibition-style fights, even if they come with significant attention and financial incentives.

Reflecting on UFC Discontent

Later in the interview, around the 17:00 mark, Ferguson opened up about periods of unhappiness during his time in the UFC. He discussed specific frustrations with how certain aspects of his career were managed, shedding light on behind-the-scenes challenges that affected his overall experience. This segment of the conversation provided insight into the complexities of being a high-level fighter in a major promotion, where personal and professional pressures often intersect. Ferguson’s honesty painted a picture of resilience despite the difficulties he faced while competing at the elite level.