Introduction

Charles Oliveira has a heartfelt message for UFC matchmakers: it’s time to reconsider how they book fights for Tony Ferguson. In a recent interview, Oliveira expressed concern for the former interim lightweight champion following his latest defeat, marking his eighth consecutive loss.

Tony Ferguson's Recent Setback

Ferguson faced a significant setback in August, succumbing to a first-round submission by Michael Chiesa during an event in Abu Dhabi. This defeat elicited emotional reactions, with Ferguson initially suggesting he might retire after the fight. However, at the post-fight press conference, he declared, “No, I still wanna fight,” indicating his desire to continue competing despite the challenges.

Oliveira's Perspective

Oliveira, who handed Ferguson one of his losses back in 2020, emphasized the importance of respecting Ferguson's legacy and dedication to the sport. He stated, “He deserves all the respect in the world just for still fighting; he should receive a standing ovation for everything he’s accomplished in the UFC.”

A Call for Thoughtful Matchmaking

Recognizing Ferguson's recent struggles, Oliveira suggested that the UFC should align him with opponents who are closer to his age and experience level. “It would be great to match him against someone on their way out of their career, so they can put on a show and we can applaud them.”

Ferguson's Challenging Path

Notably, Ferguson has been stopped in five of his last eight defeats, facing formidable opponents like Justin Gaethje and Nate Diaz. His last victory against someone older than himself dates back to June 2019, when he defeated Donald Cerrone. Oliveira argued that pitting Ferguson against “young kids” trying to make a name for themselves isn’t beneficial for the veteran fighter.

Conclusion

“As he’s at a certain stage in his career, matching him with fresh, hungry fighters could be detrimental,” Oliveira stated. “There are so many seasoned fighters out there—let’s give him a chance to shine among peers who can truly challenge him in a way that respects his legacy.” Ferguson’s resilience and passion for fighting remain evident, and with Oliveira's call for change in matchmaking, fans may yet see “El Cucuy” rise again in the octagon. The question is, will the UFC heed Oliveira's advice and book Ferguson in a way that honors his storied career? Only time will tell.