Former UFC interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson has peeled back the curtain on the emotional conversation that led to his departure from the promotion after a storied yet turbulent career. Known for his unorthodox style and legendary 12-fight win streak, Ferguson’s UFC journey ended on an eight-fight skid, prompting a mutual decision to part ways.
Now signed with the Global Fight League (GFL), “El Cucuy” has opened up about his final talks with UFC brass, revealing a bittersweet farewell that even Dana White agreed was necessary. But what exactly transpired behind the scenes?
“We All Agreed It Was Time”: UFC star's candid exit revelation
In a heartfelt interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Tony Ferguson shared the details of his final UFC meeting.
“When I left the UFC, everything was—I hate to say it because I wanted to fight another time—but even I had to excuse myself,” he admitted. “I didn’t want to leave on bad terms.”
Ferguson revealed that his discussions with UFC President Dana White and Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell were surprisingly amicable.
“Talking to Dana White, talking to Hunter, and coming to terms with it, we all agreed it was in my best interest to move on,” he said. “Honestly, it was awesome.”
The decision, while difficult, marked a turning point for Ferguson, who acknowledged the need for a fresh start after his prolonged slump.
“For a long time, this sport has been built on the backs of strong men and women. I’ve been knee-deep in most of the changes made in this sport. We can’t be afraid of change.”
Tony Ferguson’s fresh ambitions
Now with the GFL, Ferguson is embracing a new chapter.
“I want to go and play different sports, experience new things, new trophies, new rings, new championships,” he declared. “I want to keep adding to my resume.”
The 39-year-old also channeled wrestling legend “Macho Man” Randy Savage, teasing his resurgence:
“‘When you shake things up, the cream always rises to the top.’ And here we are with the GFL.”
Why Tony Ferguson’s exit was inevitable
Tony Ferguson’s UFC exit wasn’t just about losses—it was about legacy. Once a dominant force in the lightweight division, his eight-fight skid included brutal defeats to elite contenders like Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira. Yet, his resilience and unyielding spirit earned him respect, even in defeat.
By parting ways amicably, Ferguson preserved his relationship with the UFC while opening doors to new opportunities. His move to the GFL symbolizes a fresh start, where he can redefine his career on his own terms.
What’s next for “El Cucuy”?
Tony Ferguson’s GFL debut is highly anticipated, with fans eager to see if he can recapture his former glory. While his UFC chapter is closed, his fighting spirit remains unbroken. As he put it, “The cream always rises to the top.”
