The UFC is the powerhouse of MMA, no doubt about that. But even the biggest empires have cracks. Let’s welcome Tony Ferguson, over very own UFC legend who’s thrown caution to the wind (and maybe threatened Dana White’s sleep schedule) by signing with the Global Fight League (GFL). His bold move comes with perks that sound more like corporate benefits than anything fighters are traditionally used to. Think health insurance, retirement plans, and revenue share. It’s a fighter’s dream come true, and for the UFC, maybe a brewing nightmare.

So, what does this mean for the future of MMA? Could Ferguson’s leap inspire others to follow? Let’s take a look at three fighters who, if they’re playing it smart, might just pack their bags and join him.

‘El Cucuy’ doesn’t just fight, he embodies chaos. But after eight consecutive losses and Dana White gently nudging him toward retirement, Ferguson wasn’t ready to hang up his gloves. His decision to sign with the GFL wasn’t just a career pivot, it seems like a statement.

The GFL, set to launch in 2025, offers fighters something the UFC has yet to fully embrace. Financial security and genuine benefits. With a 50% revenue split and a revolutionary team-based format, it’s already making waves. Six teams drafting fighters across 10 weight classes? It’s like MMA meets fantasy league, and Ferguson’s making sure his name is on the starting lineup. The question is, will others follow his lead? If anyone’s paying attention, they should.

1. Derrick Lewis

Derrick Lewis is the kind of guy you watch for the knockouts and stay for the comedy. He’s the UFC’s meme king, the man behind lines like “My b-lls was hot” and knockouts that make highlight reels for years. But here’s the thing, the UFC doesn’t seem to know what to do with him anymore.

Despite holding the record for most knockouts in UFC history, Lewis is stuck at #10 in the heavyweight rankings. Too good to ignore but too inconsistent for a title run, he’s become more of a gatekeeper than a contender. And let’s not forget his struggles against elite heavyweights in recent years.

Even Lewis seems to sense the writing on the wall. After Francis Ngannou’s blockbuster PFL deal, Lewis couldn’t help but quip, “I gotta thank Ngannou for making that kind of money possible.” You don’t have to read between the lines to see he knows his value and the fact that he’s not getting it.

The GFL could offer Lewis the freedom he craves, fun fights without the constant pressure to climb rankings, and paychecks that finally match his star power. Plus, let’s be real… Dana White’s ongoing grudge against Francis Ngannou might just push Derrick Lewis closer to the door.

2. Dominick Reyes

Remember when Dominick Reyes almost dethroned Jon Jones? That razor-thin decision at UFC 247 feels like a lifetime ago. Since then, Reyes has been on a downward spiral since. Appearing only once in 2021 and 2022, suffering four brutal losses in a row, it did look like doomsday, i.e., until finally clawing his way back with a win over Dustin Jacoby and then Anthony Smith at UFC 310.

‘The Devastator’ still has gas in the tank, but staying in the UFC’s light heavyweight division is a grind that’s not doing him any favors. Ranked #11, he’s stuck in no-man’s land just like Lewis. Too far from a title shot, and too talented to quit.

So, thinking about it, the GFL could be exactly what he needs as a fresh start. A new beginning in an environment that prioritizes fighter health and career longevity. The promotion’s focus on minimizing extreme weight cuts is an added bonus, which Dana White hardly took note of, despite the noise around it.

Now imagine Reyes not just fighting but mentoring a team of up-and-coming talent. A redemption arc where he leads the next generation while reclaiming his own glory? It’s almost too good to pass up.

3. Henry Cejudo

Henry Cejudo isn’t just an Olympic gold medalist and former double champ. He’s one person who loves being the center of attention. But at 37, the clock is ticking, and his latest loss to Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 298 suggests the UFC’s bantamweight division might be moving on without him.

Cejudo, however, doesn’t seem fazed. Set to face Song Yadong at UFC Fight Night 252 next month, ‘Triple C’ has hinted that his priorities might be shifting. Winning fights may no longer be the only thing on his mind. It’s about solidifying his legacy and calling his own shots.

Once again GFL might be the holy grail. With a smaller talent pool and fewer obstacles to a championship, Cejudo could easily grab another belt, pad his already impressive resume, and ride off into the sunset on his own terms.

This promotion would roll out the red carpet for a star like him – because, hello? Have you met Henry Cejudo? His charisma, trash-talking, and undeniable skill are a perfect starter pack that would instantly elevate the promotion’s credibility. Imagine ‘Triple C’ headlining a GFL event, drawing in fans, mentoring young fighters, and helping the league gain traction.

Tony Ferguson’s leap to the GFL is more than a career move, it’s a wake-up call for the UFC. For veterans like Lewis, Reyes, and Cejudo, it’s an opportunity to extend their careers, earn what they’re worth, and leave the sport with dignity. But for our UFC boss, Dana White, it’s definitely a potential headache. If this newcomer keeps poaching big names, could it spark a larger exodus?

The UFC may still be the king of MMA, but even kings can’t afford to ignore rebellion, especially if it is being portrayed as a dictatorship. What do you think? Is this the beginning of a new era in combat sports? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!