Tony Ferguson is a professional mixed martial artist, active in the lightweight division in the Ultimate Fighting Championship since 2011.  Born to Mexican father, he was raised by his Scottish-American stepfather, who played an important role in his career, guiding him in the right direction. Tony later recalled how he looked at the tournament brackets, wondering who he was going to wrestle next, while his father advised him to concentrate on the current scenario. He began to wrestle while in school and later at college, eventually moving to the West Coast without earning his degree. There he began his career as a mixed martial artist, quickly earning the nickname of El Cucuy.  Trained under various well-known trainers, he has also developed his personal training methods, which are believed to have helped him to garner strength and agility. As of June 2022, he has won 25 matches out of his 32 appearances, also earning a hefty some in bonuses.