Introduction

Tony Ferguson, the former UFC interim lightweight champion, is looking to end his six-fight losing streak when he faces Paddy Pimblett at UFC 296 on December 16. To prepare for this crucial fight, Ferguson has enlisted the help of David Goggins, a retired Navy SEAL, motivational speaker, and endurance athlete.

Who is David Goggins?

Goggins is known for his extreme workouts and mental toughness, having completed several ultra-marathons, triathlons, and other feats of physical endurance. He has also written a best-selling book, “Can’t Hurt Me”, where he shares his life story and his philosophy of overcoming challenges and pushing beyond limits.

What are they doing?

Ferguson has been training with Goggins for several weeks, and has posted videos of their sessions on social media. The videos show them doing intense cardio exercises, such as running, biking, and rowing, as well as Goggins’ notorious “Hell Week”, which consists of seven days of non-stop physical and mental challenges.

Why are they doing it?

Ferguson has praised Goggins for his coaching and inspiration, and has said that he is ready to face Pimblett, who is a rising star in the UFC with a four-fight winning streak. Ferguson has also said that he is not worried about his age, 39, or his recent losses, and that he still has the fire and the skills to compete at the highest level.

What are the pros and cons?

However, not everyone is convinced that training with Goggins is the best strategy for Ferguson. Some critics, such as former UFC champion Daniel Cormier and Pimblett himself, have questioned the relevance and effectiveness of Goggins’ methods for MMA. They have argued that Ferguson should focus more on his fighting fundamentals, such as striking, grappling, and defense, rather than on his cardio and endurance.

They have also suggested that Ferguson might be overtraining and exhausting himself, which could affect his performance and recovery. They have pointed out that Ferguson’s main problem is not his lack of fitness, but his decline in speed, power, and accuracy, which have been exposed by his recent opponents.

Joe Rogan, the UFC commentator and podcast host, has offered a more balanced perspective on Ferguson’s training with Goggins. He has acknowledged that there are some potential benefits to working with Goggins, such as improving his endurance, mental toughness, and confidence. He has also said that Goggins could help Ferguson find his motivation and passion for fighting again, which might have been diminished by his losses.

However, Rogan has also cautioned that training with Goggins is not a guarantee of success, and that Ferguson still needs to work on his technical and tactical aspects of MMA. He has said that Ferguson needs to adapt and evolve his style, and to avoid taking unnecessary damage in his fights. He has also said that Pimblett is a dangerous opponent, who is younger, faster, and more versatile than Ferguson.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the outcome of the fight between Ferguson and Pimblett will depend on many factors, such as their preparation, game plan, execution, and luck. Training with Goggins might give Ferguson an edge, or it might backfire. The only way to find out is to watch the fight at UFC 296, which promises to be an exciting and unpredictable clash of styles and personalities.