“Five fights, then a title, baby,” Tony Ferguson declared ahead of his UFC 291 fight against Bobby Green. However, few accepted his words, as his recent five-fight skid tells a different story. The 39-year-old is at the twilight stage of his fighting career, and fans and pundits alike have advised him to hang up his MMA gloves. But he was willing to trade blows at The Delta Center, in Salt Lake City, on July 29.

On the other hand, Green was on a similar slide, as he failed to collect a win in his previous three outings. Thus, the fight offered both lightweights a chance to redeem themselves. A win could turn around their career at this crossroads. But, it was the ‘King’ who stood tall while his opponent’s body finally gave up.

Notably, Green won the fight via submission in the dying seconds of the final round.

What happened in the fight at UFC 291?

The crowd showered support on Ferguson as they chanted “Tony, Tony” even before the bell rang. Ferguson assumed the aggressor’s role, while Green relied on his quick reflexes. Further, Ferguson gunned for a takedown and also didn’t shy away from meeting Green in the middle. He also effectively countered Green with jabs. While Green landed some blows, he poked the eyes of Ferguson as the latter’s right hook threw him off.

The doctor intervened, and it appeared Ferguson’s right eye troubled him. However, Ferguson’s unorthodox approach troubled his opponent more. Both fighters had a competitive round, and Green’s confidence grew as the round progressed.

In round two, Ferguson forced the fight to the ground as he swept the floor. While Ferguson tried to get a hold of Green in a triangle, Green landed some heavy blows on Ferguson. The strategy didn’t seem to pay dividends, as Green mauled his opponent with elbows. Those big elbows dealt heavy blows and busted him open.

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In the final round, Ferguson, still going at the same pace, endured the blows of Green. But a similar beating followed. In the final seconds of the round, Green caught him with a half-body choke with less than 30 seconds left in the round. However, Ferguson didn’t give up, didn’t tap, and instead passed out. Thus, turning in a gutsy performance and exhibiting exemplary fighting spirit.

How did the fans react to Ferguson’s submission loss?

What do you make of this exciting fight at UFC 291? Let us know in the comments below.

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