Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov Catch Strays After Tony Ferguson Snaps 6-Year Losing Skid

Tony Ferguson discusses potential boxing matchups with Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov following his debut boxing victory at Misfits Boxing 22.

Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov Catch Strays After Tony Ferguson Snaps 6-Year Losing Skid

Tony Ferguson believes that Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov won't fight him in boxing (via MMA Mania, Irish Sun, Misfits)

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MMA fans around the globe are celebrating as Tony Ferguson finally snapped his six-year losing streak. After dropping eight straight fights in the UFC and eventually being released, the veteran made his boxing debut at Misfits Boxing Series 22, where he stopped influencer Salt Papi in style. And, true to form, Ferguson couldn’t resist taking a sharp jab at some of his fellow former lightweights.

The victory marked Ferguson’s first win since 2019, when he defeated Donald Cerrone at UFC 238, making the moment even more special for his supporters. During the post-fight press conference, ‘El Cucuy’ was asked if he’d consider stepping into the ring against either former UFC double champ Conor McGregor or legendary lightweight Khabib Nurmagomedov. Ferguson’s response? Classic, unpredictable Ferguson!

Sorry, but that dude (McGregor) is scared sh**less of me, and he does not wanna fight me. Same thing with that coward Khabib. These are the two fighters that I would love to want to fight. I got dossiers on both of them, which scares the sh*t outta them, and you know what, they just don’t want a part of it. If they do, then we’ll find out a way how to do it. But I am here, I got resurrected, I feel great.

Tony Ferguson via MF X 22 post fight press conference

The reporter also asked controversial MMA fighter Dillon Danis, who is McGregor’s former training partner and compatriot, if the Irishman actually is scared of Ferguson. However, Danis believed that McGregor is on another level and Ferguson “does not want the fight.” Danis also gave props to Ferguson for his successful fight, but termed McGregor as his “brother” and said that the former interim 155lbs kingpin stands no chance.

Ferguson’s most intense and harsh rivalry was against Nurmagomedov, despite never fighting inside the Octagon. The two were scheduled to face each other five times between 2015 and 2020, but each bout fell through due to injuries, weight-cut issues, or travel restrictions. Their rivalry spilled over online, where Ferguson often mocked the Dagestani’s fighting style and accused him of pulling out of fights.

For reference, ‘El Cucuy’ was once one of the most feared lightweights in the UFC, riding a legendary 12-fight win streak that spanned from 2013 to 2019. However, after his interim title loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC 249 in May 2020, his career took a difficult turn. Ferguson went on to suffer eight consecutive defeats against the likes of Charles Oliveira, Beneil Dariush, Paddy Pimblett, and King Green.

These losses showcased both the brutal depth of the lightweight division and the toll years of fighting had taken on Ferguson, marking a sharp contrast from his dominant prime. McGregor has had his fair share of experience in the boxing ring, and a fight against Ferguson would be a perfect comeback for the Irishman. However, Nurmagomedov has made his intentions clear: he will never fight without his father.

Tony Ferguson dubs Conor McGregor as the best striker in lightweight history.

Tony Ferguson has consistently expressed distaste for Conor McGregor and has called him out for not fighting during their careers in the UFC. They have had a rocky relationship marked by callouts, insults, and online digs. While Ferguson often dismissed McGregor as a “paper champ” and questioned his relevance in the lightweight division, McGregor rarely hesitated to fire back with his own sharp words

Tony Ferguson Conor McGregor
Tony Ferguson Conor McGregor (via New York Post, Mac Life)

The former UFC veteran was seen answering some questions regarding which fighter had the best striking skillset in the history of the lightweight division. Surprisingly, Ferguson chose McGregor as the best striker from the division, surpassing the likes of Dustin Poirier and Eddie Alvarez. This moment stood out, as it reflected a rare glimpse of respect; however, Ferguson still called the Irishman ‘McNugget’ throughout.

Ferguson’s remark ultimately adds another layer to their unfinished story. While fans may still wonder how a clash between the two would have unfolded, Ferguson’s recognition of McGregor’s striking cements the Irishman’s reputation even in the eyes of his rivals. It’s a reminder that in MMA, respect often comes from those who understand the fight game best.

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