Tony Ferguson believes he’s edging closer to a fight with Khabib Nurmagomedov despite the fact ‘The Eagle’ retired from MMA in 2020.
‘El Cucuy’ is currently riding a two-fight losing streak. He lost to Justin Gaethje by fifth round TKO at UFC 249 before falling to a decision defeat against Charles Oliveira at UFC 256.
At UFC 262, Ferguson will look to get back to winning ways when he takes on Beneil Dariush who is under the same management company as Nurmagomedov – Dominance MMA.
The former interim lightweight champion believes every fighter he beats from Dominance MMA brings him one step closer to the illusive fight with Nurmagomedov.
“I’m getting closer to Khabib and that’s the only fight that his pops wanted for him and that’s the only fight that they agreed to,” Ferguson explained to ESPN. “So like I said before on that one. If he needs to be retired and go get PED’s and come back stronger, I’m just kidding with that, you know. But he’s gotta watch out man, they’re going to try to get as much film on me as they can, but I don’t know what all the film you need, I gave you two of the best ones.”
‘El Cucuy’ believes Nurmagomedov’s retirement is temporary.
“Well, I have a pretty good idea when people are calling their bluffs right,” Ferguson said. “Remember when I called his bluff on UFC 209. Same thing dude, I know Khabib and that’s the only reason I could look in that guy’s soul, so it’s different. So regardless of this chess, checkers or whatever it is or even a friendly game of video game, I’m sure we’ll play one time because the fans want to see something like that. (Transcribed by Essentially Sports)
Will we ever see Tony Ferguson vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov?