Tony Ferguson has gone through a lot. He was set to face Khabib Nurmagomedov for the UFC Lightweight Championship. But the fight was canceled as ‘the Eagle’ is grounded in Russia. Later, he was slated to fight Justin Gaethje for the UFC Interim Lightweight Championship.
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However, that too was delayed, as the location was leaked. This prompted ESPN to ask Dana White to stand down and not do the event. At the time they announced the cancelation, ‘El Cucuy’ was chatting with the Orange County Register. He explained that a change in opponent wasn’t a major concern considering he was preparing to face the Dagestani fighter.
When he heard the news, he remained silent for a moment. However, the reply that followed showed that he is oblivious to everything apart from getting ready for the fight. He even put out a tweet in this regard.
“Still🙏Workin’” Gonna Make Weight By Friday #ChampionshipWeight 155lbs 🧢⚾️ It’s A TUF Thing 💯 Champ Shit Only™️ #ufc249 🇺🇸🏆🇲🇽 Keep Grindin’ Crew 💪🕶 pic.twitter.com/BqL874mVOg
— Tony Ferguson (@TonyFergusonXT) April 11, 2020
Tony Ferguson set to make weight on Friday
‘El Cucuy’ has remained steadfast in his goal. He continues to train as though the fight was still on for this weekend. Late on Thursday night, ‘El Cucuy’ texted Ariel Helwani a photo and a reporter took the liberty of sharing the image on Twitter. ‘El Cucuy’ weighed in at 163.6 pounds. His efforts in maintaining weight, and continuing to move ahead in these uncertain times are admirable.
Tony Ferguson just texted me this photo. True to his word, fight or not fight this weekend, he is planning on making 155 tomorrow morning. pic.twitter.com/62uRr7udbv
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) April 17, 2020
Earlier he said, “I gotta keep the faith, I gotta keep this small circle close, bro, and just keep focusing on what we can control, which is our heart rate and our breathing.” He has been doing exactly that and is not spending energy on things he cannot control.
Tony Ferguson’s determination in remaining steadfast with his routine will hold him in good stead ahead of the proposed return date for UFC events. Dana White said that the 9th of May will feature a star-studded fight card which includes his Interim Title fight.
The UFC President revealed that the venue will be the UFC Apex. However, it remains to be seen whether a smaller Octagon will have an impact on the fighters. But, ‘El Cucuy’ is one who may just shrug it off as all he wants to do is make weight and fight for the title.
Will the UFC hold the event at ‘The Apex’? Or will they seek refuge in Florida where sports are deemed essential businesses?
