Anthony ‘Showtime’ Pettis is getting ready to make another run for the lightweight title. After the announcement of his fight against former interim champion Tony Ferguson, Pettis expressed his excitement for the opportunity.
Not that long ago it seemed like a title shot was far from his grasp. However, less than 2 months ago Anthony looked like his old self in UFC 226. Anthony shocked the world by submitting Michael Chiesa and beating him at his own game. Now he has another opportunity to shine, against a guy whose style makes for a good fight.
“I’m excited, Tony is a good fighter. He comes to bring it so it’s going to be a fun fight for me. It’s not going to be a wrestling match, it’s going to be a fight, so I’m excited.”
Although he expects a brawl, Pettis wouldn’t be surprised if Ferguson tries to use his wrestling.
“I’m expecting Tony to come out probably with a wrestling initial pace but he’s a scraper. He has good submissions, weird-style striking, but I’m excited to go test my skills.”
Many people feel that Ferguson just wanted to secure a spot on UFC 229. If anything were to happen to either Khabib or McGregor, he would be the logical substitute. If nothing happens to the main event, Tony will put on the line his spot as the next contender. To some, the fight against Pettis is ‘a tune up’ fight for Tony before he can challenge for the belt. The WEC and UFC former lightweight champion, has a different perspective.
“They haven’t seen my fights if they think that’s the case. I was the champion and he was a contender, now it’s viceversa. I’m coming back for what I already had. I’m the only one of all them guys that defended the belt. Conor never defended the belt. Khabib is his first time defending the belt. Tony didn’t defend the belt. I defended the belt. I’ve been there, done that. Now I’m coming to have fun an whoop this guy’s ass.”
Anthony knows he has been given a great opportunity to find his way back to a championship fight. And he plans to make the most out of it. He believes a victory at UFC 229 could make him the next contender.
“Most definitely. A win over Tony puts me in the best spot of my career.”
