Former UFC lightweight champion Tony Ferguson has been training with retired Navy SEAL David Goggins in preparation for his fight against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 296, despite some questioning the effectiveness of this approach.
Tony Ferguson is pulling out all the stops for his upcoming fight against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 296. He’s even been training with retired Navy SEAL David Goggins.
Ferguson, a former interim UFC lightweight champion, is trying to break a six-fight losing streak. He recently revealed that he’s been training with Goggins. Goggins is not just a retired Navy SEAL but also a coach, motivational speaker, and ultra-marathon runner.
Some people were a bit surprised by Ferguson’s choice of training partner. Even UFC color commentator Joe Rogan, who is friends with Goggins, wasn’t sure if it was a good or bad move. He voiced his uncertainty as Ferguson prepared to face Pimblett.
Ferguson described his training sessions with Goggins as humbling and intense. “It was a crazy experience,” he said during UFC 296 media day. He expressed gratitude for the experience, despite its intensity.
Ferguson’s training with Goggins was relentless, particularly during the so-called “hell week”. There were times when he questioned himself and struggled to keep food down during the intense workouts. But the physicality of the training also toughened him mentally, something he expects to benefit him on fight night.
Ferguson described the training as one of the hardest things he’s ever done. He didn’t know what to expect from Goggins, but he showed up ready to work. He didn’t ask questions, he just did what he was told.
Pimblett, Ferguson’s upcoming opponent, was among those who questioned Ferguson’s training tactics. The Liverpool native called the partnership “stupid” and doubted it would benefit Ferguson in their fight.
Before the media day, Pimblett paid homage to Ferguson, expressing his wish to see “El Cucuy” get back on track. But not at his expense. Regardless of Pimblett’s comments, Ferguson didn’t have time for him and showed no interest in engaging.
Ferguson is focused on dismantling Pimblett, just like he did with past opponents like Donald Cerrone or Anthony Pettis. He’s primed and ready to unleash come Saturday night.
“All of a sudden, I allowed people to want to get in that ring, in that cage [with me],” Ferguson said. “When I started seeing that, I started to accept it. F*** no, I’m back to where the f*** I need to be. I’m going to hit him hard. I’m going to set the pace. I’m going to make his face a ketchup sandwich.”