What does Tony Ferguson mean by CSO?

Tony Ferguson (Image Courtesy: @tonyfergusonxt Instagram)
Tony Ferguson (Image Courtesy: @tonyfergusonxt Instagram)

Tony Ferguson uses the abbreviation "CSO" in all of his social media posts, meaning 'champ sh*t only'.

It also has another meaning that the lightweight fighter once highlighted. Ahead of his fight against Charles Oliveira at UFC 256, 'El Cucuy' appeared at the virtual media day and stated that he is the "CSO of the UFC," or the "chief security officer:"

"I’m the CSO of the UFC, CSO means ‘chief security officer.’ If you need something done, count on me. Reliable. I go out there and I make it happen." (h/t mmajunkie.com)

Ferguson once built a 12-fight winning streak in the UFC lightweight division, a divisional record he possesses along with former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. He also held the interim championship following his win against Kevin Lee at UFC 216.

Justin Gaethje broke Ferguson's winning streak at UFC 249 in 2020. He has lost six consecutive fights since. The calls for his retirement are getting stronger as Michael Chandler, Nate Diaz, and Bobby Green finished Ferguson in his recent fights.

Ferguson suffered his latest loss to Bobby Green at UFC 291 in July 2023. 'King' overcame adversity in the first round and asserted his dominance as the fight went on.


What's next for Tony Ferguson in the UFC?

Tony Ferguson is currently 39 years old. Many believe he is on borrowed time inside the octagon, a theory that his recent performances have done little to dispel.

One might argue that 'El Cucuy' looked like his former self against Green in the first round of their contest. He was able to display his familiar unorthodox and high-pressure fighting style. It looked like he might finally be getting back in form before the momentum shifted in Green's favor.

Tony Ferguson is set to return to the octagon against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 296 on December 16. Most experts predict Pimblett to win the fight as he is much younger and fresher. He is currently undefeated in the UFC with a 4-fight unbeaten run. The British fighter last defeated Jared Gordon via unanimous decision in December 2022. He was on the sidelines for one year due to an ankle injury sustained in that fight.

Meanwhile, 'El Cucuy' is training with endurance athlete David Goggins, presumably to get an edge in terms of endurance and mental toughness. According to reports, Goggins may corner Tony Ferguson on December 16.

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Edited by Harvey Leonard