UFC legend Tony Ferguson reveals huge ‘Sylvester Stallone’ dream: “Say thank you to that dude”

UFC veteran Tony Ferguson talks about his childhood idol and intentions to meet Sylvester Stallone in the future.

UFC legend Tony Ferguson reveals huge ‘Sylvester Stallone’ dream: “Say thank you to that dude”

Tony Ferguson is a big fan of Sylvester Stallone (via Imago/X)

Tony Ferguson is undoubtedly one of the biggest legends in the history of UFC lightweight division. The former lightweight interim champion has fought some of the biggest names in the division, and recently bid farewell to UFC. ‘El Cucuy’ has achieved a lot in his career, but is yet to fulfill one of his long-standing wishes. 

For many fighters, there are role models, which inspired them to pursue this dangerous sport of violence. For Ferguson, it was not a real life fighter, but a reel-life one –Sylvester Stallone in the Rocky movie series. In a recent interview, the American fighter shared his affection for Stallone and his intentions to meet him one day.

One day, I would like to meet Sylvester Stallone. I want to say ‘thank you’ to that dude….He was in Rocky, that had a really big effect on how I used to carry myself. 

Tony Ferguson via The Ariel Helwani Show 
YouTube video

Back then, the Rocky movies were extremely popular and it served as a motivation for many young people at that time. The character showed resilience and the ability to never give up. Both qualities are highly similar to Tony Ferguson‘s fighting career.

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In his prime, ‘El Cucuy’ was unstoppable with a granite chin, and outstanding cardio. He was a zombie that kept on going despite getting hit several times. However, this backfired as all that damage took a toll on the fighter’s overall ability to fight in the latter half of his career.

Tony Ferguson talks about his reasons to leave UFC 

Tony Ferguson’s downfall began after his 12-fight win streak ended against Justin Gaethje in 2020. He suffered eight straight losses, showing diminished durability and slower reflexes. Age, accumulated damage, and poor strategic adjustments played a role for the legend in not being able to win again.

Tony Ferguson infamous fight with Justin Gaethje
Tony Ferguson infamous fight with Justin Gaethje (via X)

Once an elite lightweight, Ferguson’s decline highlights the unforgiving nature of MMA, where even legends eventually fade under the sport’s relentless. Recently, he left UFC to join GFL, which shocked his fans. In a recent interview, he shared why he left UFC. 

I have fought for f**king, I don’t know how many years waiting for a championship and then getting it and then having it taken and then dangling in front of me again… What do you think I am? I’m a human being. I’m not trying to bi*ch and moan, but at least if you do this to me, you’re not gonna feel bad for doing it to the next person…. My focus is always to what? Keep the sport moving.

Tony Ferguson via The Ariel Helwani Show 

Currently, Ferguson is scheduled to fight controversial BJJ expert Dillion Danis in GFL. The fight received mixed reactions as many fans wanted Ferguson to leave fighting instead of taking more damage. However, the veteran as usual remains confident about getting his last professional win. 

Related: Tony Ferguson Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Wife and House