Tony Ferguson makes surprising Paddy Pimblett prediction

Tony Ferguson isn't often complimentary of his peers, but he believes former opponent Paddy Pimblett has a big future ahead of himself.

The pair met back on the main card of UFC 296 in December of 2023. Despite dominating the fight, 'The Baddy' couldn't finish the ageing 'El Cucuy', instead earning a one-sided unanimous decision victory.

In the lead-up to their fight, Tony Ferguson dismissed Paddy Pimblett, claiming he was "mouthy and beatable." Not much has been exchanged on either side since their matchup almost two years ago, until now.

Ferguson was thrown to the gauntlet during his lengthy losing streak, and he insists fans should respect those fighters a little more, including Pimblett.

"A lot of people discredit a lot of the athletes that I fight," Ferguson said regarding his long list of opponents. "And they shouldn't."

"I believe the athletes that I fight, they always have a bright future, otherwise they wouldn't have made that matchmaking."

The 41-year-old believes Pimblett can go far with his career inside the octagon.

"Secondly, I think that [Paddy Pimblett] has the opportunity. He's got a lot of fuel for the fire to be able to get the training done."

"I think the more structure, that he keeps everything the way that he has been, [and] listens to his coaches, I think the kid has a bright future in this sport."

"I think he's doing a good thing, I never hated on the kid. I even unblocked him on Instagram."

Listen to Tony Ferguson speak about Paddy Pimblett and more below.