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Michael Chiesa has an opportunity in mind for his next fight after defeating Tony Ferguson at UFC Abu Dhabi.
On Saturday night, Chiesa ended a three-fight skid by securing a first-round submission choke against Ferguson (rear-naked choke). Following his impressive performance, the 36-year-old opted for 'El Cucuy' to have the post-fight interview with Daniel Cormier for a potential retirement.
'Maverick' lost the opportunity to reveal his desired next opponent until he did an interview backstage. Chiesa, who is unranked at welterweight, had this to say about wanting to fight number four-ranked Colby Covington:
"Yes, there is something I want to f*cking say. I want to fight Colby Covington. I've been saying this for years. The guy can sit on the sidelines and say whatever he wants, whatever. I'm not chasing the rankings. I don't give a sh*t. I just want to find out who is the best fighter, who is the best welterweight in the Pacific Northwest."
Chiesa concluded by saying:
"I know he resides in Dade County, Mr. 305, but let's find out who's the best in the Northwest. Is it me or is it you? That's what I want to find out. Are you going to idly sit down and do nothing? Or are you going to come back and fight?"
Colby Covington last fought in December 2023 when he failed to dethrone Leon Edwards for the UFC welterweight title. Since then, 'Chaos' has called out number nine-ranked Stephen 'Wonderboy' Thompson and number seven-ranked Ian Machado Garry, so it's unclear if he'd be willing to fight Michael Chiesa.
Watch Chiesa call out Covington below:
Why didn't Michael Chiesa have a post-fight interview in the Octagon at UFC Abu Dhabi?
UFC Abu Dhabi was widely considered Tony Ferguson's last chance to save his job with the worldwide leader in MMA. Heading into Saturday's event, Ferguson had lost seven consecutive fights, with Michael Chiesa adding to the devastating run by submitting him in round one.
Most people expected Ferguson to retire, so Chiesa decided to turn down his post-fight interview with Daniel Cormier to give the fan-favorite his moment. 'El Cucuy' had his gloves removed but only put one in the center of the Octagon to leave the door open for a potential return.
Watch part of Ferguson's post-fight interview in the Octagon below:
