By InfoBliq 
Tony Ferguson, the former interim UFC lightweight champion known as “El Cucuy,” has compiled one of the most unique and entertaining records in mixed martial arts history. This American professional mixed martial artist from Grand Valley State University background has faced elite competition throughout his MMA career, establishing himself as one of the most unpredictable and dangerous fighters in the UFC lightweight division. Ferguson’s MMA stats reflect both periods of incredible dominance and recent struggles, making his fight history a compelling study in the volatility of professional combat sports.
Tony Ferguson’s Overall MMA Record
Tony Ferguson’s professional MMA profile shows a record of 25 wins, 11 losses, and 0 draws across his entire mixed martial arts career. These MMA stats demonstrate his effectiveness as a finisher and his ability to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
Quick Stats Summary:
| Stat Category | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Total Professional Fights | 37 | – |
| Wins | 26 | 70.3% |
| Losses | 11 | 29.7% |
| Draws | 0 | 0% |
| Knockouts/TKOs | 13 | 50% of wins |
| Submissions | 8 | 31% of wins |
| Decisions | 5 | 19% of wins |
| Finish Rate | 21/26 | 81% |
Ferguson’s MMA fight statistics reveal his preference for finishing fights, with an impressive 80% finish rate throughout his career. His ability to end fights via KO, TKO, and submission demonstrates the well-rounded skill set that made him a feared opponent during his prime years.
Career Timeline Overview
- MMA Debut: 2008
- UFC Debut: Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale (2011)
- Peak Period: 2013-2019 (12-fight win streak)
- Championship Period: Interim UFC Lightweight Champion (2017-2018)
- Recent Period: 2020-2024 (challenging losing streak)
- UFC Departure: January 2025
Tony Ferguson UFC Record Breakdown
Tony Ferguson’s UFC record stands at 16 wins and 9 losses, reflecting over a decade of competition against elite-level opposition in the world’s premier MMA organization. His UFC fight stats showcase both his incredible peak performance and recent decline.
UFC Performance Metrics
| UFC Stat Category | Total | Details |
|---|---|---|
| UFC Fights | 25 | 16 wins, 9 losses |
| UFC Finishes | 11 | 7 KO/TKO, 4 submissions |
| UFC Decision Wins | 5 | All unanimous decisions |
| UFC Main Events | 8 | Including title fights |
| UFC Co-Main Events | 4 | High-profile fight cards |
| Performance Bonuses | 14 | FOTN, POTN, SOTN awards |
Ferguson’s UFC stats reflect his entertainment value and finishing ability. His 44% finish rate in the UFC demonstrates his dangerous striking and submission skills against the world’s best fighters.
Notable UFC Achievements
- Longest Win Streak: 12 consecutive victories (2013-2019)
- Interim Championship: Defeated Kevin Lee at UFC 216
- Title Defenses: 0 (stripped due to injury)
- Bonus Awards: 14 total performance bonuses
- Historic Rivalries: Khabib Nurmagomedov (fight never materialized)
Fight History: Tony Ferguson’s Professional Bouts
Tony Ferguson’s complete fight history demonstrates his evolution as an MMA fighter and his willingness to face elite competition throughout his career.
Complete Professional Fight Record
| Date | Event | Opponent | Result | Method | Round | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 3, 2024 | UFC on ABC: Sandhagen vs. Nurmagomedov | Michael Chiesa | Loss | Submission (RNC) | 1 | Welterweight debut |
| Dec 16, 2023 | UFC 296 | Paddy Pimblett | Loss | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | Return to lightweight |
| Jul 29, 2023 | UFC 291 | Bobby Green | Loss | Submission (arm-triangle) | 3 | Ranked bout |
| Sep 10, 2022 | UFC 279 | Nate Diaz | Loss | Submission (guillotine) | 4 | Co-main event; welterweight bout |
| May 7, 2022 | UFC 274 | Michael Chandler | Loss | KO (front kick) | 2 | Former title challenger |
| May 15, 2021 | UFC 262 | Beneil Dariush | Loss | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | Ranked lightweight matchup |
| Dec 12, 2020 | UFC 256 | Charles Oliveira | Loss | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | Title eliminator |
| May 9, 2020 | UFC 249 | Justin Gaethje | Loss | TKO (Punches; Fight of Night) | 5 | Interim title bout |
| Jun 8, 2019 | UFC 238 | Donald Cerrone | Win | TKO (Doctor’s stoppage) | 2 | First win post winning streak |
| Oct 6, 2018 | UFC 229 | Anthony Pettis | Win | TKO (Corner stoppage) | 2 | High-profile matchup |
| Oct 7, 2017 | UFC 216 | Kevin Lee | Win | Submission (Triangle choke) | 3 | Interim lightweight title win |
| Nov 5, 2016 | TUF 22 Finale | Rafael dos Anjos | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 5 | Performance of the Night |
| Jul 13, 2016 | UFC Fight Night (McDonald vs. Lineker) | Edson Barboza | Win | Submission (D’Arce choke) | 2 | Elite contender win |
| Dec 11, 2015 | TUF 22 Finale | Edson Barboza | Win | Submission (D’Arce choke) | 2 | Highlight replayed finish |
| Jul 15, 2015 | UFC Fight Night (Mir vs. Duffee) | Josh Thomson | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | Return from injury |
| Feb 15, 2015 | UFC Fight Night | Abel Trujillo | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | Fight of the Night |
| May 24, 2014 | UFC 173 | Kiko Mitrione | Win | Submission (RNC) | 1 | Quick finish |
| Jun 8, 2013 | UFC 166 | Mike Rio | Win | KO (Punches) | 1 | Early UFC win |
| Apr 2011 | The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale | Ramsey Nijem | Win | TKO (doctor stoppage) | 1 | TUF 13 winner |
Early Career (Pre-UFC)
Before joining the UFC, Ferguson fought in smaller MMA promotions, building his record and developing the unique fighting style that would make him famous. His early MMA career included fights in regional promotions where he honed his striking and grappling skills.
Tony Ferguson’s Finishes: KO, TKO & Submissions
Ferguson’s finishing ability has been a hallmark of his MMA career, with his diverse skill set allowing him to end fights in multiple ways. His finish stats demonstrate his well-rounded approach to mixed martial arts.
Finish Methods Breakdown
| Finish Type | Total | UFC Only | Notable Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| KO/TKO | 12 | 7 | Upkick vs Thomson, TKO vs Cerrone |
| Submissions | 8 | 4 | Triangle choke vs Lee, D’Arce choke vs Barboza |
| Total Finishes | 20 | 11 | 80% overall finish rate |
Signature Finishing Techniques
Striking Finishes:
- Upkick KO: Josh Thomson at UFC Fight Night 71 – one of the most unique KO finishes
- Doctor Stoppage: Donald Cerrone at UFC 238 – damage accumulation
- Corner Stoppage: Anthony Pettis at UFC 229 – sustained punishment
Submission Finishes:
- Triangle Choke: Kevin Lee at UFC 216 – interim title victory
- D’Arce Choke: Edson Barboza at UFC on Fox 19 – technical excellence
- Rear Naked Choke: Multiple opponents throughout his career
Ferguson’s finishing ability made him one of the most dangerous fighters in the UFC lightweight division. His creativity in finding finishes, particularly with unorthodox techniques like the upkick, showcased his unique approach to MMA fight strategy.
Third Round Finishes
Ferguson has shown particular effectiveness in later rounds, often overwhelming opponents with his conditioning and relentless pace. His third round finishes demonstrate his ability to break opponents mentally and physically as fights progress.
Performance Bonuses & Awards
Throughout his UFC career, Tony Ferguson has been one of the most consistent bonus earners, reflecting his exciting fighting style and ability to deliver memorable performances.
Complete Bonus History
| Award Type | Total | Events |
|---|---|---|
| Fight of the Night | 8 | Multiple UFC Fight Night events |
| Performance of the Night | 4 | Various UFC events |
| Submission of the Night | 2 | Including first submission of the night |
| Total Bonus Awards | 14 | Over $700,000 in bonus money |
Notable Bonus-Winning Performances
Fight of the Night Awards:
- vs Abel Trujillo (UFC 181) – Back-and-forth war
- vs Lando Vannata (UFC Fight Night 91) – Dramatic comeback victory
- vs Josh Thomson – Unique upkick finish
- vs Multiple opponents throughout his win streak
Performance of the Night:
- vs Rafael dos Anjos (Ultimate Fighter 22 Finale) – Dominant decision
- vs Edson Barboza – Submission excellence
- vs Donald Cerrone (UFC 238) – Doctor stoppage victory
Submission of the Night:
- First submission of the night award for triangle choke finish
- D’Arce choke submissions showcasing technical skills
Ferguson’s consistent bonus earnings made him one of the UFC’s most reliable entertainers. His ability to deliver exciting fights regardless of the outcome demonstrated his commitment to putting on memorable performances for fans.
Dana White frequently praised Ferguson’s fighting style and willingness to engage, making him a favorite among UFC management for his consistent entertainment value and professional approach to competition.
Tony Ferguson’s Rankings and Title Shots
Tony Ferguson’s career trajectory included significant time in the UFC lightweight division rankings, culminating in championship opportunities and recognition as one of the division’s elite fighters.
Title History and Rankings
| Achievement | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Interim UFC Lightweight Champion | Oct 2017 | Defeated Kevin Lee via triangle choke |
| Stripped of Title | Apr 2018 | Due to injury, unable to unify with Khabib |
| #1 Contender | 2019 | During 12-fight win streak peak |
| Top 5 Ranking | 2015-2020 | Consistent elite-level ranking |
| Current Ranking | 2025 | Unranked (departed UFC) |
Championship Opportunities
Interim Title Victory: Ferguson’s victory over Kevin Lee at UFC 216 represented the pinnacle of his career achievements. The triangle choke submission in the third round demonstrated his technical skills under championship pressure.
Failed Unification Attempts: Ferguson was scheduled to face Khabib Nurmagomedov multiple times to unify the lightweight title, but the fight was canceled due to various circumstances. This became one of MMA’s most famous “fights that never happened.”
Title Shot at UFC 249: Ferguson’s fight against Justin Gaethje at UFC 249 was for the interim lightweight title after Khabib withdrew. Despite losing via TKO, this represented Ferguson’s final championship opportunity.
Peak Ranking Period
During his 12-fight win streak from 2013-2019, Ferguson held the #1 contender position and was widely considered the best lightweight not named Khabib Nurmagomedov. His ranking during this period reflected his dominance over elite competition.
Comparing Ferguson’s Stats to Other UFC Fighters
Tony Ferguson’s MMA stats and UFC record place him among the division’s historically significant fighters, though his recent struggles have impacted his legacy standing.
Statistical Comparisons
| Fighter | UFC Record | Title Reigns | Longest Win Streak | Finish Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tony Ferguson | 16–9 | Interim Lightweight (1x) | 12 | ~81% |
| Khabib Nurmagomedov | 13–0 (UFC), 29–0 overall | Undisputed Lightweight Champion | 13 | ~66% |
| Conor McGregor | 10–4 (UFC), 22–6 overall | Featherweight (1x), Lightweight (1x) | 7 | ~86% |
| Justin Gaethje | 9–4 (UFC), 26–5 overall | Interim Lightweight (1x) | 4 | ~81% |
| Charles Oliveira | 21–9 (UFC), 35–11 overall | Lightweight (1x) | 9 | ~89% |
Unique Career Achievements
Ferguson’s Distinctions:
- Holds the record for longest win streak in recent lightweight history
- Most creative finishing techniques in the division
- Highest bonus-earning rate among long-term UFC competitors
- Only fighter to hold interim title via triangle choke
Comparative Analysis: While Ferguson never achieved undisputed championship status like Khabib or McGregor, his 12-fight win streak and consistent finishing ability place him among the division’s elite performers. His UFC fight stats demonstrate sustained excellence over a longer period than many champions, while his overall career earnings and Tony Ferguson net worth remain respectable compared to peers.
Legacy Context
Ferguson’s statistics must be viewed in the context of his unique career trajectory. His peak performance period rivaled any fighter in UFC history, while his recent decline reflects the inevitable challenges of aging in professional combat sports.
Tony Ferguson’s Legacy in MMA
Beyond the raw numbers and fight results, Tony Ferguson’s impact on mixed martial arts extends to his influence on fighting styles, training methods, and the sport’s entertainment value.
Cultural Impact
“El Cucuy” Persona: Ferguson’s unique personality and fighting style created a cultural phenomenon within MMA. His unpredictable behavior and creative techniques influenced a generation of fighters and fans.
Training Innovation: Ferguson’s unconventional training methods, including his famous shadow boxing and movement drills, have been adopted by fighters across multiple promotions. His approach to conditioning and mental preparation influenced modern MMA training.
Historical Significance
Stylistic Innovation: Ferguson’s integration of unorthodox striking, creative submissions, and relentless pace created a unique fighting template. His use of elbows from unusual angles and submission attempts from unconventional positions expanded MMA’s technical vocabulary.
Entertainment Value: Ferguson’s consistent delivery of exciting fights made him one of the UFC’s most reliable entertainers. His willingness to engage in firefights while maintaining technical excellence set a standard for professional combat sports entertainment.
Influence on the Sport
Lightweight Division Evolution: Ferguson’s career coincided with and contributed to the UFC lightweight division’s emergence as the sport’s most competitive weight class. His battles with elite competition helped establish the division’s depth and quality.
Mental Toughness Standard: Ferguson’s ability to overcome adversity and continue fighting through damage became legendary. His mental toughness in fights like his comeback against Lando Vannata at UFC Fight Night 91 demonstrated the psychological aspects of elite competition.
Future Recognition
As Ferguson transitions away from active competition, his statistics and achievements will be remembered as representing one of the most unique and entertaining careers in UFC history. His MMA stats tell the story of a fighter who maximized his potential while entertaining fans and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in mixed martial arts competition.
Ferguson’s legacy extends beyond wins and losses to encompass his role in elevating the UFC lightweight division and demonstrating the entertainment value possible when elite skill meets creative expression in professional MMA. His fight history serves as a case study in both the peaks and valleys possible in a professional fighting career, making his complete record essential reading for understanding modern mixed martial arts evolution.