Tony Ferguson tasted his record-setting eighth straight UFC loss earlier today (Sat., Aug. 3, 2024) at UFC Abu Dhabi LIVE on ABC and ESPN+ from inside Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE, after welterweight veteran Michael Chiesa choked out “El Cucuy” with a first-round rear-naked choke.
Despite being 40 years of age and losing his last seven trips to the Octagon coming into today, Ferguson still felt the itch to step inside of the cage and try to capture a win. Unfortunately, Chiesa was the stronger fighter at UFC Abu Dhabi and utilized his grappling in the very first round to score the win.
Chiesa was able to move inside and quickly took Ferguson’s back. From there, “Maverick” slowly snuck his arm under Ferguson’s chin. Once Chiesa had the full choke “El Cucuy” was quick to tap. It was a great return performance by Chiesa and another crushing loss for Ferguson.
Check out the final moments below:
Tony’s Time is over. Chiesa Sub 1. #UFCAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/CBWweN9Vgk
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) August 3, 2024
Ferguson, who has been urged to retire in the past, took off one glove and left it inside of the cage. This may be his record-setting eighth straight UFC loss, but the veteran fighter is still leaving the door open for a potential return.
Check out his post-fight interview below:
It’s not a goodbye, but it’s a see ya later.. @TonyFergusonXT is leaving only ONE glove in the Octagon tonight. The other will go home with him after #UFCAbuDhabi #InAbuDhabi | @InAbuDhabi | @VisitAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/YCRjeXqMfv
— UFC (@ufc) August 3, 2024
For complete UFC Abu Dhabi results, coverage, and highlights, click HERE.