In a recent episode of his podcast, Joe Rogan delved into the career of UFC veteran Tony Ferguson, emphasizing that Ferguson remains a formidable force in the octagon despite recent setbacks. Rogan’s reflections highlight Ferguson’s enduring danger and resilience, even as he faces the challenges that have marked his recent fights.
“Tony Ferguson is still dangerous,” Rogan stated unequivocally. He pointed to Ferguson’s tenacity in bouts against top-tier fighters like Justin Gaethje and Michael Chandler. Despite losses, Ferguson’s ability to pose a significant threat to his opponents remains evident. Rogan noted, “He was dangerous in the Gaethje fight. He was dangerous in the Chandler fight.”
Ferguson’s career has been marked by a series of highs and unfortunate lows. Once considered one of the most dangerous fighters in the lightweight division, Ferguson’s skill set includes a variety of lethal submission holds and a relentless fighting style that has earned him victories against notable opponents. Rogan reminisced about Ferguson’s prowess, saying, “He was everybody up. Those chokes that he was hitting on people, the D’Arce, the armbar… He would lock that on you and you were done.”
However, Ferguson’s trajectory took a dramatic turn in 2018 when he suffered a freak accident. While preparing for a highly anticipated fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov at Madison Square Garden, Ferguson tripped over a cable and severely injured his knee. This incident, Rogan lamented, altered the course of Ferguson’s career. “He tripped on one cord, and it all changed,” Rogan said, marveling at the sheer unpredictability of the sport. “Getting ready for the Khabib fight, Madison Square Garden trip, massive fight, and trips over just blows his knee out. Doesn’t make any sense.”
Despite the severity of his injury, Ferguson made an astonishingly quick return to the octagon. Rogan recounted Ferguson’s comeback fight against Anthony Pettis, which took place only a few months after his surgery. “He came back from that super fast, beat Pettis,” Rogan recalled. “Pettis was kicking the out of that leg, and it was only, if I remember correctly, five months or so after. It was ridiculously short.”
Ferguson’s determination to return to form after such a debilitating injury is a testament to his resilience. “When I talked to people that knew about that surgery and knew about how bad his knee was, they were amazed,” Rogan noted. Ferguson’s commitment to his own rehabilitation further underscores his relentless drive and warrior spirit.
While Ferguson’s recent fights have not all ended in victory, Rogan’s admiration for him remains steadfast. “Anytime he would do anything, I was cheering for Tony,” Rogan shared, reflecting the sentiment of many fans who have followed Ferguson’s career with awe and respect. “Tony was a real scary man for many, many years.”
Joe Rogan’s commentary serves as a reminder of Tony Ferguson’s remarkable journey and enduring potential. Despite the physical and psychological toll of his injury and subsequent fights, Ferguson’s legacy as a dangerous and resilient fighter in the UFC continues to inspire both fans and fellow fighters.