### Charles Oliveira Advocates for Smarter Matchmaking for UFC Veteran Tony Ferguson

In a heartfelt appeal, Charles Oliveira has urged UFC matchmakers to reconsider how they book fights for Tony Ferguson, should the seasoned fighter decide to continue his career. Oliveira, who handed Ferguson his second loss in an ongoing eight-fight losing streak back in 2020, expressed his concern during a recent interview with MMA Fighting. Reflecting on Ferguson's recent first-round submission defeat to Michael Chiesa in August, Oliveira admitted it was tough to witness his friend and former opponent suffer another setback.

Tony Ferguson, a former interim lightweight champion, stirred the MMA community with mixed signals about his fighting future. While he initially hinted at retirement after his loss to Chiesa in Abu Dhabi, Ferguson later backtracked at the post-fight press conference, asserting, "No, I still want to fight." This statement has sparked discussions on how the UFC should handle his future bouts, given his current losing streak and advanced age.

"Tony deserves all the respect in the world just to be fighting still," Oliveira said. "He deserves a standing ovation for everything he's done in the UFC." Oliveira believes that the UFC should pair Ferguson with fighters of a similar age and experience level to ensure more competitive and entertaining matchups. Highlighting Ferguson's impressive career, Oliveira emphasized that facing younger, more aggressive opponents may not be the best route for the veteran.

Ferguson's current skid includes losses to notable fighters such as Justin Gaethje, Michael Chandler, Nate Diaz, and Bobby Green, alongside decision defeats to Beneil Dariush and Paddy Pimblett. The last time Ferguson faced an opponent older than himself was in June 2019, when he defeated Donald Cerrone. Oliveira, who earned his title shot largely thanks to his victory over Ferguson, suggested that the UFC should focus on matching Ferguson with fellow veterans rather than up-and-coming fighters.

"The guy doesn’t want to retire; he’s there," Oliveira pointed out. "So why not get someone with the same vibe to put on a big fight? That would be great." He further added that pitting Ferguson against hungry newcomers who are seeking to make a name for themselves might have a detrimental effect on the veteran fighter. "It sucks. The guy has a certain age, and you put him against young kids to fight him? That hurts him a little bit."

Oliveira's empathetic view towards Ferguson calls for a more considerate and strategic approach in matchmaking, ensuring that veterans like Ferguson continue to participate in the sport they love, but in a manner that respects their legacy and physical well-being.