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Salt Papi Protests Loss Against UFC Fan-Favorite Tony Ferguson: 'Ref was Biased'

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Ameetosh Dash | Last updated Sep 4, 2025 11:24 AM ET

In what was a cathartic moment for fans, Tony Ferguson finally won his first professional fight in six years, facing influencer-turned-boxer Salt Papi at Misfits Boxing 22. The former interim UFC lightweight champion secured the much-needed victory via TKO, making sure to end his long losing streak convincingly that night.

However, according to Papi, the outcome of the fight remained controversial, leaving fans debating whether the decision was truly fair. In the opening rounds, Papi showcased exceptional, striking, and precise footwork, overwhelming Ferguson while expertly controlling the pace and distance.

As the fight progressed, ‘El Cucuy’ adjusted well, finding his rhythm, landing effective combinations, and slowly wearing down Papi with relentless pressure. In the third round, Ferguson delivered multiple unanswered shots, forcing the referee to stop the fight at the third-minute mark. According to Papi, the stoppage was unfair as he believed he was still capable of fighting and defending himself..

I had to put my hands up and then the referee just stepped [in]. And there was only like 20 seconds left on the on the counter as well. I felt like the fans got robbed of a proper fight. I was two rounds up already. Tony Ferguson needs to work more if he wants to win. It wasn’t like I got knocked out, it was the ref. The ref was a bit biased.… I don’t know what’s going on, but this is the boxing business. I’m just happy to be around.
Salt Papi via The Fighting Conversation

Papi mentioned that in the night’s main event between Darren Till and Luke Rockhold, the referee continued counting even after Rockhold appeared completely unconscious. The fans were divided over the stoppage, some pointing toward an early call, while Ferguson’s supporters celebrated their fighter’s impressive victory.

Salt Papi said the ref robbed fans of a proper fight with Tony Ferguson by stopping it early

“There was only 20 seconds left. I was two rounds up. The ref was being biased. All the refs were different for every fight.”

(via @Tarbeto1003) pic.twitter.com/ugbGOqXoyT
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) September 3, 2025

It marked the influencer’s third professional boxing loss, though the setback seemingly did not impact his confidence or motivation significantly. Despite being unsatisfied with the referee’s decision, Papi showed respect toward Ferguson and took multiple photos after the showdown.

During the intense fight, Papi suffered a thumb injury, which now requires immediate surgical attention to ensure proper recovery. The determined fighter has already requested a potential rematch with Ferguson, though the experienced veteran has yet to respond publicly.

Tony Ferguson’s reaction to his first win since 2019

Tony Ferguson’s unfortunate decline began at UFC 249 with an interim title loss to Justin Gaethje, starting an eight-fight losing streak that shocked MMA fans around the world. Once considered an unstoppable contender, Ferguson struggled badly against rising talents, taking brutal knockouts and painful submissions in heartbreaking fashion.

Each fight seemed like a desperate attempt to secure one last memorable victory, but his efforts never paid off. The defeats accumulated, forcing the UFC legend to reluctantly retire, ending an incredible but tragic chapter in his storied career. Seeking a fresh start, Ferguson transitioned into Misfits Boxing, determined to prove himself again inside a different competitive combat sports arena.

After finally winning there, Ferguson became extremely emotional, tears reflecting years of hardship, perseverance, and the weight of past failures.

Man, it’s different than MMA. Not talking about punches and kicks but the whole entire sport in general. The rules and everything just had to remember my composure, stay loose like my corner always told me to put the pressure on when it’s needed and throw more than one punch….I’m gonna get better and better every single time and we’re gonna figure things out.
Tony Ferguson via The Stomping Ground

Ferguson has stated confidently that he belongs in Misfits Boxing and promises to return soon, fighting passionately for his loyal fans. He has already reignited his old rivalries, targeting legendary names like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor for potential blockbuster bouts. It remains intriguing how ‘El Cucuy’ will navigate this new career chapter, shaping his unpredictable future in combat sports.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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