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Tony Ferguson

Tony Ferguson is an American mixed martial artist best known for competing in the UFC’s lightweight division.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Tony Ferguson (born February 12, 1984) is an American mixed martial artist best known for competing in the UFC’s lightweight division. He won Season 13 of The Ultimate Fighter and later held the UFC interim lightweight championship.

Early life and background

Tony Ferguson was born on February 12, 1984, in Oxnard, California. Sources also describe him as having Mexican heritage.

Mixed martial arts career

Ferguson turned professional in 2008 and rose to prominence after winning The Ultimate Fighter 13 in 2011. He later competed for many years in the UFC, including in the lightweight and welterweight divisions.

Championships and accomplishments

His major career achievements include winning The Ultimate Fighter 13 and holding the UFC interim lightweight championship. He has also been listed among UFC lightweight contenders in official rankings.

Fighting style

Ferguson has been described as an adaptable mixed martial artist with experience in wrestling, boxing, jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai. This combination has contributed to his reputation for an unusual and unpredictable style.

Key facts

  • Ferguson was born in Oxnard, California, and grew up in the United States.
  • He began his professional MMA career in 2008.
  • He won The Ultimate Fighter 13 in 2011.
  • He became UFC interim lightweight champion in 2017.
  • He is known by the nickname 'El Cucuy.'

Frequently asked questions

Who is Tony Ferguson?
Tony Ferguson is an American mixed martial artist best known for competing in the UFC, where he won The Ultimate Fighter 13 and held the interim lightweight title.
What is Tony Ferguson's real name?
His full name is Anthony Armand Ferguson Padilla.
When was Tony Ferguson born?
He was born on February 12, 1984.
What title did Tony Ferguson win in the UFC?
He held the UFC interim lightweight championship.
What is Tony Ferguson's nickname?
His nickname is 'El Cucuy.'

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://eu.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Ferguson
    Supports: Full name, birth details, Mexican heritage, The Ultimate Fighter 13 win, interim UFC lightweight championship.
  2. UFC — https://www.ufc.com/athlete/tony-ferguson
    Supports: Nickname, professional status, wins by knockout and submission, UFC career information.
  3. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/mma/fighter/_/id/2560085/tony-ferguson
    Supports: Nationality, birthdate, height, weight class, stance, and MMA profile.
  4. UFC — https://www.ufc.com/news/making-tony-ferguson
    Supports: Professional debut period, rise through The Ultimate Fighter 13 and UFC career context.