Tony Ferguson surprisingly felt the ‘nerves’ before his stoppage win at Misfits 22.
‘El Cucuy’ won his first-ever crossover boxing match last Saturday, following an eight-fight losing streak in MMA, to stop Nathaniel ‘Salt Papi’ Bustamante in the third round.
It was a shock win for the former UFC star, who was ‘miserable’ in the last few years as a mixed martial artist.
His victory preceded Darren Till’s insane knockout of Luke Rockhold, where the Liverpudlian called out Carl Froch, on an evening of entertaining contests.
Former UFC star Tony Ferguson spoke about his ‘nerves’ following a big stoppage win over Salt Papi
This was Salt Papi’s third loss in the promotion, following a successful start that saw him praised for his hand speed and boxing ability by some professional fighters.
But all eyes are on the UFC fan favourite who got his much-needed victory to exorcise the demons of his recent fights.
In his interview with The Stomping Ground, Ferguson revealed that he was worried before heading into the bout, with the pressure of his past performances hanging over him.
He said: “I was nervous as s- – – starting. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into. I had eight losses, and I just don’t want to add another one. There’s so much hype and there are so many people talking about (me) being washed and just everything.
“I don’t think anybody’s ever been in my position to be able to be like this and want to keep pushing forward.”
A surprising admission from a legend of the MMA world who competed at the top level for several years, especially when he was taking on an influencer fighter.
However, having settled those nerves, he attributed his victory to one change in his approach during the bout.
“I’m telling you, listening to my cornermen and being able to trust the process, which was showing up, putting in the work, and the hard days just making sure I showed it up again and keep on going forward till this day,” he said.
His win secured him the MF interim middleweight title, which he was proud to hold, and he expressed his desire to defend the belt in the crossover boxing scene.
Tony Ferguson wants to meet boxing film legend following his ‘dream’ win
Now, with the first victory secured in this new aspect of combat sports, the 41-year-old has revealed that he wants to meet an inspiration of his from the world of Hollywood.
In the interview, Ferguson spoke passionately about his win and a lifelong goal to meet an actor synonymous with boxing on the silver screen.
He said: “This is a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to be like Rocky and Sylvester Stallone, if you’re hearing this, I’d like to meet you one day. This is just incredible.”
This win does have some resemblance to the spirit of the Rocky films, considering the American has suffered multiple setbacks but has not let defeat make him quit combat sports.