BREAKING: Tony Ferguson Return Fight Announced for UFC 262

Tony Ferguson has officially been announced to return to the Octagon at UFC 262. Ferguson will be facing #9 ranked Lightweight Beneil Dariush.

That is a fall-off in level of competition for Ferguson, who has faced 2 world title caliber opponents in his last 2 losses. However, Dariush is more dangerous than what his rank suggests.

This is a massive fight for Ferguson, who is looking to keep his UFC tenure alive. While it is unlikely the UFC will release him unceremoniously, another loss could have the questions around whether he should still be fighting become even more intense. Along with that, what does Ferguson do if he is not in title contention after his long UFC career?

Dariush is a fantastic opponent to match him up against. The BJJ specialist should match up well with Tony, who is one of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC.

However, his striking failed him against Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira. Is the story going to be different now?

Tony Ferguson: Can he end his losing streak?

Tony Ferguson is a bad man, but so is Beneil Dariush. He is coming off 6 consecutive wins in the UFC Lightweight division. His latest one was a Fight of the Night special against Carlos Ferreira in February.

Ferguson’s last fight was in December when he lost to Charles Oliveira. Oliveira is now challenging for the UFC Lightweight title against Michael Chandler.

Ferguson’s dreams of becoming an undisputed champion are still alive. While those chances became a lot bleaker in 2021, they aren’t over yet.

A good win over Dariush could have him right back at the top of the rankings. He has fantastic BJJ, but uses his striking to do damage. That may be more effective against Dariush, who isn’t the same striker as Ferguson’s last opponents.

Dariush is a major submission threat, but we know from the Oliveira fight that getting Ferguson to tap out is a chore. Hopefully, some fireworks will fly when they meet up.

UFC 262 is expected to have Chandler and Oliveira headline the title, so Ferguson can make a statement on the biggest stage for the division. Or Dariush can establish himself as an elite fighter.

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