Tony Ferguson Accuses UFC of “Dangling” Title in Front of Him

Tony Ferguson could return to the title shot mix at UFC 256 on Saturday, if he defeats the surging, Charles Oliveira. But, according to Ferguson, he could care less about winning the lightweight title at this juncture.

Ferguson questions why he didn’t receive title shot before

‘El Cucuy’ will be fighting this Saturday for the first time since May, when Ferguson was stopped by Justin Gaethje. That bout was for the interim title, and due to Gaethje’s win, he advanced to face the champ, Khabib Nurmagomedov in October (and lost via submission).

Well, since Ferguson had won 12 fights prior to that loss, and because he’s one of this generation’s top lightweights, a win Saturday will move him back into the title shot hunt. But, while talking about the belt recently, Ferguson said this (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“Man, that title is a wet dream,” Ferguson said. “Like that Farmers Insurance commercial: ‘Oh, you almost got it. Keep it going. We’re just going to keep dangling it in front of you.’

“I don’t know what the problem is. I don’t know if it’s because I’m Mexican.

I’m American with Mexican parts. Twelve-fight win streak.

Eight years in the making, before women’s sports were even in. Conor (McGregor) was on welfare. … All these different things, and I still didn’t earn a title shot.”

Ferguson didn’t stop there, however, as he also said the following about UFC gold.

“I don’t give a (expletive),” Ferguson said.

Thoughts

Does Ferguson really, truly not care about winning the title at this point? It’s possible. There’s no question he’s been through a lot in that respect.

Now, some might point out that Ferguson was initially, supposed to fight Khabib earlier this year for the belt. But, Nurmagomedov was stranded in Russia on account of the COVID-19 pandemic , and the fight with Gaethje was booked instead.

All that aside, it will be interesting to see how Ferguson does against Oliveira. If he scores a big win, will we hear Ferguson calling for a title shot?

Or, for a bout with the winner of Conor McGregor – Dustin Poirier 2? Which is going down on January 23rd?

Will he call someone else out? Like Michael Chandler? Or call for a rematch with Gaethje?