In a stunning career resurgence, former UFC interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson has been crowned the Misfits Boxing middleweight champion. ‘El Cucuy’ snapped a notorious five-year losing streak with a commanding unanimous decision victory over Warren Spencer at Misfits Boxing 23, showcasing the sharp striking and relentless pressure that once made him a nightmare in the Octagon.
The win marks a pivotal turnaround for Ferguson, who had not secured a victory since June 2019. Fighting under the influencer boxing banner, Ferguson demonstrated that his veteran skills and unorthodox style translate powerfully to the squared circle, controlling the bout from start to finish to claim championship gold.
🔥 @TonyFergusonXT loved that knockdown 🔥
Main event up next ➡️ only on Rumble Premium pic.twitter.com/t7qfoBNc4z
— Misfits Boxing (@MisfitsBoxing) December 20, 2025
Performance Analysis: Ferguson’s Calculated Domination
Ferguson’s performance was a masterclass in ring control and strategic pressure. Abandoning some of the unpredictable flair of his MMA career, he fought a disciplined and effective fight. He established his jab early, consistently backing Spencer up and cutting off the ring.
The former UFC star mixed in sharp combinations to the body and head, never allowing his opponent to settle into a rhythm. While a knockout eluded him, the unanimous decision was never in doubt, with Ferguson winning nearly every minute of every round. This calculated approach proved that even at 41, his fight IQ and technical boxing ability remain elite.
The Road to Redemption: Snapping the Streak
This championship victory is the culmination of a determined comeback trail. Ferguson’s last win before his infamous skid was a TKO victory over Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone at UFC 238. The subsequent five-year period saw him drop seven straight fights in the UFC against the division’s very best, leading to his release from the promotion earlier this year.
His redemption arc began not in MMA, but in the boxing ring. He secured his first win since 2019 by defeating fellow MMA veteran Nathaniel Bustamante on a prior Misfits card, building momentum that culminated in this title-winning performance against Spencer.
Industry Reactions and Future Callouts
The combat sports world reacted with widespread admiration for Ferguson’s perseverance. Prominent MMA journalist Ariel Helwani hailed the win as “one of the best stories of the year,” a sentiment echoed by fighters and fans across social media.
The victory immediately sparked speculation about Ferguson’s next move. Following the fight, he expressed his love for the sport of boxing and called for big opportunities. While a return to the UFC seems unlikely, potential high-profile crossover boxing matches against other MMA legends or influencers within the Misfits ecosystem are now a distinct possibility, offering a lucrative and exciting new chapter for the veteran.
A New Championship Chapter for ‘El Cucuy’
Tony Ferguson’s capture of the Misfits middleweight title is more than just another belt; it’s a narrative of resilience. By transitioning his skills to boxing and stringing together wins, he has rewritten the final act of his combat sports career.
No longer defined by a losing streak, Ferguson is now a champion in a new arena. His success under the Misfits banner proves the viability of the influencer boxing model for established MMA veterans and sets the stage for what could be a fascinating and successful second act for one of the sport’s most unique characters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What title did Tony Ferguson win?
Tony Ferguson won the Misfits Boxing (MFB) Middleweight Championship with a unanimous decision victory over Warren Spencer at Misfits Boxing 23.
How long was Tony Ferguson’s losing streak before this win?
Ferguson had not won a professional fight in over five years, with his last victory coming in June 2019 against Donald Cerrone in the UFC.
Who did Ferguson beat to start his comeback?
His comeback began with a win over fellow MMA veteran Nathaniel Bustamante on a previous Misfits Boxing card, which set up this title shot.
What was the reaction from the MMA community?
The reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with figures like Ariel Helwani and many fighters praising his perseverance and celebrating his return to the winner’s circle as a major feel-good story.
What’s next for Tony Ferguson?
Having won the Misfits title, Ferguson is expected to pursue high-profile crossover boxing matches within the influencer boxing scene. A return to professional MMA appears unlikely at this stage.
