Watch: Emotional Tony Ferguson Drops To His Knees After First Win Since 2019

Initially losing the opening two rounds, Ferguson increased his pace, using sharp combinations alongside relentless pressure. Ultimately, he wore down Papi effectively. In the third round, Ferguson turned the tide by pressuring Papi, landing sharp combinations against the ropes before the referee stoppage.

The fight was halted at 2:43 of Round 3 with Papi visibly slowing, sparking discussion over whether the stoppage was premature. This TKO marked Ferguson’s first combat sports win since June 2019, finally ending his losing skid with a dramatic comeback. Ferguson captured the Misfits Boxing Pro interim middleweight title, receiving an electric ovation from the crowd, chanting “El Cucuy” repeatedly.

Overcome with emotion, the seasoned fighter dropped to his knees, clearly overwhelmed by the passionate support pouring in from loyal fans. Following the bout, as anticipated, the 41-year-old veteran declared intentions to continue fighting despite advancing age and out of prime athleticism.

Tony Ferguson’s mighty comeback after years of disappointment 

Tony Ferguson entered his final UFC stint starving for a victory, his legendary career plagued by losses and mounting pressure. He endured brutal wars against Justin Gaethje, absorbing relentless punishment and violent barrages that left lasting physical and emotional trauma. His fight with Michael Chandler produced another devastating outcome, as a brutal front kick left him unconscious on the canvas.

Despite accumulating severe damage, Ferguson’s relentless warrior spirit refused to surrender, determined to fight on, even as his body weakened significantly. When the boxing bout against Salt Papi was announced, many fans expressed concern, questioning Ferguson’s health and long-term safety.

However, the veteran silenced critics completely with a stunning, composed performance, proving his experience was not to be taken lightly. Following the win, Ferguson talked about the fight and also shared thoughts about his future with Misfits Boxing. 

It feels awesome. I was nervous…before camp started. Felt really comfortable after a couple of rounds. Got hit a couple of times but listened to the cornerman and came out with a victory. I want to box, this is something that is a dream come true. 1-0 and would like to be 2-0. MMA is still there but money talks. We are here to stay. 

Tony Ferguson via MMA Fighting 

In the same event, Dillon Danis steamrolled Warren Spencer in a light-heavyweight MMA bout, securing a submission in just fifteen seconds. After dominating his opponent swiftly, Danis went into the boxing ring to embrace Ferguson, hinting at a future showdown.

Danis’s relentless trash-talk charisma, combined with Ferguson’s massive popularity, makes a highly marketable Misfits Boxing matchup that fans would instantly crave. Ferguson also agreed to this bout and mentioned how he’s a misfit who belongs in this organization.

The California resident became a true MMA misfit, building a legendary twelve-fight win streak that nearly secured a UFC lightweight title opportunity. His highly anticipated bout against Khabib Nurmagomedov was booked five different times, but was tragically cancelled each occasion, fueling endless fan frustration.

Outside the octagon, Ferguson faced multiple controversies, including troubling incidents, public disputes, and unsettling reports involving his personal life. Concerns grew among fans fearing Ferguson’s behavior reflected PTSD, mental health struggles, and lasting trauma from years of violent professional fighting. Nevertheless, the end is not near for ‘El Cucuy’ for now.