Former UFC interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson has disclosed a significant injury setback leading up to his recent UFC 296 bout against Paddy Pimblett. Ferguson, who suffered his seventh consecutive loss in a unanimous decision defeat to Pimblett, shared on social media that he had incurred an MCL tear just two weeks before Thanksgiving.
Details of Ferguson’s Injury Revelation
In a candid social media update, Ferguson explained that he sustained an MCL tear during a practice session two weeks before Thanksgiving. Despite the injury, he chose to keep it private and continued training as if nothing had happened. The former interim champion acknowledged the pain but maintained his focus on the fight preparation. Three weeks before the bout, he shared the news with a select few from his team but made no adjustments to his training routine. Ferguson recently underwent surgery to repair his MCL, opting to address a concurrent elbow/arm issue through arthroscopic procedures.
Concerns Surrounding Multiple Surgeries
The revelation of Ferguson undergoing knee and elbow surgeries within a week of each other raises concerns, particularly considering the fighter’s age and recent struggles. The decision to address both issues concurrently adds another layer of complexity to Ferguson’s recovery. The news is likely to spark discussions about the veteran fighter’s future, with some suggesting that it may intensify calls for him to consider retirement.
Despite the disclosed MCL tear, opinions on Ferguson’s performance against Pimblett may remain underwhelming for some fans. The acknowledgment of the injury adds context to the fight but may not significantly alter perceptions. Ferguson’s incredible 12-fight win streak from 2013-2019 is acknowledged, but the recent string of losses has prompted discussions about his ongoing career and legacy.