Former UFC star Tony Ferguson is set to make his professional boxing debut on August 30, marking a significant milestone in his career. At 41, Ferguson is eager to step into the ring and take on a new challenge, leaving behind the barefoot battles of the Octagon for the shoed encounters of boxing.

A New Chapter for Tony Ferguson

Ferguson, known for his dynamic fighting style in the UFC, has always been a natural entertainer. His transition to boxing has been a long time coming, and he’s more than ready to prove himself in this new arena. "I can't wait to get in there and handle business, man, because I've been working my ass up," Ferguson told ESPN.

The Excitement of Wearing Shoes

One of the things Ferguson is most excited about is the simple act of wearing shoes. Having spent most of his career fighting barefoot in the UFC, the idea of lacing up boxing boots brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort. "I f----- hate fighting without shoes," Ferguson admitted. "I grew up wrestling with wrestling shoes. I grew up playing football and baseball with cleats and I grew up just with shoes on my feet. It was just always like that."

Overcoming Challenges

Ferguson’s journey to the boxing ring hasn’t been without its hurdles. He revealed that the UFC didn’t allow him to pursue boxing while he was under contract, fearing the risk of injury. But Ferguson is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. "They tried to ice the kicker, which means they try to put me on the shelf so that way they thought I was going to get old and not be able to do shit. But unfortunately for them they were wrong," he said.

A Role Model for His Sons

Beyond the thrill of competition, Ferguson is driven by a desire to be a role model for his two sons, Armand and Angel. He wants to show them the value of hard work and perseverance. "Me growing up, I had Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger," Ferguson explained. "It's hard to find that. And if I'm able to still be that fucking dude where people can be like, damn, that's a man right there. He's doing his business."

Looking Ahead

Ferguson’s boxing debut against YouTuber "Salt Papi" in Manchester, England, is just the beginning. With his trademark determination and work ethic, Ferguson is ready to make his mark in the boxing world. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of new challenges.