Tony Ferguson
- Record: 25-10-0 (11 KOs, 8 Submissions, 6 Decisions)
- Age: 40
- Height: 6'0"
- Reach: 76.5 inches
- Fighting Style: Freestyle wrestling, boxing, jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, Wing Chun
Strengths:
- Versatile striking and unorthodox style
- Exceptional cardio and relentless pace
- Dangerous submission game, particularly D'Arce chokes
- Experience against high-level competition
Weaknesses:
- Recent losing streak and potential decline in durability
- Struggles against strong grapplers who can control him on the ground
Michael Chiesa
- Record: 16-7-0 (11 Submissions, 5 Decisions)
- Age: 36
- Height: 6'1"
- Reach: 75.5 inches
- Fighting Style: Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Strengths:
- Strong grappling and submission skills
- Effective at using his size and reach to control opponents on the ground
- Solid takedown game
Weaknesses:
- Striking is not as developed as his grappling
- Has struggled against elite competition
- Recent losses and potential issues with fight confidence
Fight Preview
This matchup features two seasoned fighters, both looking to regain their footing in the UFC. Ferguson, known for his unorthodox striking and relentless pace, faces Chiesa, a grappling specialist with a solid submission game.
Ferguson holds a significant edge in striking with his unorthodox and relentless style. He is known for his versatility and ability to land from unpredictable angles. Chiesa, on the other hand, relies more on his grappling and is less comfortable in prolonged striking exchanges.
Chiesa's strength lies in his grappling and submissions, with a strong takedown game and effective control on the ground. Ferguson, while proficient in jiu-jitsu, has struggled against dominant grapplers who can control him.
Both fighters have faced elite competition, but Ferguson's recent losing streak raises concerns about his durability and ability to compete at the highest level. Chiesa has also struggled recently, particularly against high-level opponents, but his grappling remains a key asset.
This fight is likely to come down to whether Chiesa can implement his grappling game and control Ferguson on the ground. If Ferguson can keep the fight standing, his striking and relentless pace could overwhelm Chiesa.
Prediction
Tony Ferguson by TKO/KO in Round 2
Ferguson's unorthodox striking and relentless pressure may prove too much for Chiesa, who has shown vulnerabilities in striking exchanges. However, if Chiesa can secure takedowns and control Ferguson on the ground, he could grind out a decision victory or secure a submission.
