THE W.A.D.E. Concept - THE TRUTH: Tony Ferguson’s Going To Get HURT.. BADLY | Misfits Face 2 Face BREAKDOWN

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Episode: THE W.A.D.E. Concept - THE TRUTH: Tony Ferguson’s Going To Get HURT.. BADLY | Misfits Face 2 Face BREAKDOWN
Release Date: August 10, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Description: A deep dive into the upcoming Misfits boxing event featuring the face-off between Tony Ferguson and Salt Papi (Nathan), exploring the dynamics, strategies, and potential outcomes of the fight.

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1. Introduction to Misfits 22 and the Main Event

The episode kicks off with the host introducing the latest Misfits boxing event, Misfits 22, set to take place at the AO Arena on August 30th in Manchester. The main attraction is the co-main event featuring Tony Ferguson, a UFC legend, against Salt Papi (Nathan), an influencer-turned-boxer with a burgeoning record.

Notable Quote:
Unknown Analyst [02:07]: "Today I am taking a look at the face to face that went down almost a week ago between Salt Papi and Tony Ferguson for Misfits 22."

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2. Background on the Fighters

Tony Ferguson:
A seasoned MMA fighter known for his tenure in the UFC, Tony has faced numerous top-tier opponents like Barboza, Pettis, and Gaethje. At 41 years old, Tony has been on a challenging path with recent losses and discussions about transitioning out of MMA.

Salt Papi (Nathan):
An influencer with zero professional fights, Salt Papi is making his pro boxing debut against Tony Ferguson. With eight boxing fights under his belt, Salt leverages his social media presence and charisma to build a following in the boxing scene.

Notable Quote:
Salt Papi (Nathan) [05:20]: "This dude made that walk. I'm making the walk for my first time. You have eight fights and I have zero. Everybody's underwriting me."

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3. The Face-Off Dynamics

The face-off between Ferguson and Salt Papi was a focal point of the episode. The discussion highlights the tension and banter exchanged, shedding light on each fighter's mindset and approach to the upcoming bout.

Tony Ferguson's Perspective:
Tony expresses skepticism about Salt Papi's capabilities, emphasizing his own experience and the influencer's lack thereof in combat sports.

Salt Papi's Perspective:
Salt Papi counters Tony's skepticism by showcasing his fighting spirit and determination to prove himself in the boxing ring.

Notable Quotes:
Salt Papi (Nathan) [06:32]: "Any person that's got the fucking balls to walk through the door and to stay there is a fighter, bro."
Unknown Analyst [07:07]: "Tony, you fought people like Barboza, Pettis, Gaethje, the top of the food chain. Why now, Salt, Pappy?"

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4. Analysis of Strategies and Strengths

The hosts delve into a comparative analysis of both fighters' strengths and potential strategies in the ring.

Tony Ferguson:
Despite his MMA background, Tony is seen as a formidable opponent due to his striking experience, endurance, and fight IQ. However, concerns arise about his age, recent performance slump, and lack of pure boxing focus.

Salt Papi (Nathan):
Salt is praised for his agility, speed, and knockout power. His ability to connect powerful punches could pose a significant threat to Tony. The discussion also touches upon Salt's social media influence and how it translates into his boxing persona.

Notable Quotes:
Unknown Analyst [11:26]: "Salt Papi can cause Tony some issues regardless if he wants him to or not... I am fully thinking that Salt is more dangerous."
Salt Papi (Nathan) [15:09]: "I can’t sandbag anymore, man."

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5. Predictions and Fan Reactions

The episode examines public sentiment and expert predictions surrounding the fight. While Tony boasts his resilience and experience, many analysts lean towards Salt Papi securing the victory due to his dedicated boxing training and physical attributes.

Notable Quotes:
Unknown Analyst [12:44]: "Tony is 41, that's already declining in his own sport... I expect Salt Papi to win this fight."
Salt Papi (Nathan) [26:46]: "I just do whatever it takes to win and hope I get lucky."

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6. Final Words and Anticipation for Fight Night

As the episode draws to a close, both fighters share their final thoughts and build anticipation for the event. The host encourages listeners to tune in and support the fighters, highlighting the excitement surrounding Misfits 22.

Notable Quotes:
Salt Papi (Nathan) [27:01]: "I'll see you on the 30th. Handshake."
Unknown Analyst [28:14]: "I'm still sticking with Salt Pappy winning this fight."

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7. Conclusion

The episode provides a comprehensive breakdown of the upcoming fight between Tony Ferguson and Salt Papi, offering insights into each fighter's journey, strategies, and the overall excitement of Misfits 22. Listeners are left with a clear understanding of the stakes involved and the potential outcomes of this high-profile matchup.

Final Notable Quote:
Unknown Analyst [30:12]: "Fight week is almost here now. We're a couple of weeks away. I'm going to be traveling all over the country, so it's the last time you guys will see me in the setup room for a while."

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Listeners Interested in More:

• Misfits 22 Event: August 30th at Manchester AO Arena.
• Follow Salt Papi (Nathan) on Instagram and other social platforms for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
• Support the fighters: Purchase tickets and tune in to the Misfits 22 broadcast for an exhilarating fight night.

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Note: This summary is based on the provided transcript and podcast information. For the most accurate and detailed insights, listening to the full episode is recommended.

Transcript

[Unknown Host]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[Jake Hofer]

I'm Jake Hofer and this is Back 40, a limited series show on Wire to Hunt, part of Meat Eaters Podcast Network. Each episode I'll be asking eight whitetail hunting pros a focused, thought provoking question about hunting and land management. How do I hunt the best part of the farm with less than ideal access?

[Unknown Analyst]

Should you? That's what the real question is. Stand without good access is not a good stand.

[Jake Hofer]

Listen to Back 40 on iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcast.

[Unknown Host]

Let's start with a quick puzzle. The answer is Ken Jennings appearance on the puzzler with A.J. jacobs. The question is what is the most entertaining listening experience in podcast land Jeopardy truthers believe in?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I guess they would be conspiracy theorists.

[Unknown Analyst]

That's right, they gave you the answers.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

And you still blew it.

[Unknown Host]

The Puzzler listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

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What would you do if one bad decision forced you to choose between a maximum security prison or the most brutal boot camp designed to be hell on earth? Unfortunately for Mark Lombardo, this was the choice he faced.

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He said, you are a number, a New York state number and we own you.

[Jeff Perlman]

Listen to Shock incarceration on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Unknown Analyst]

All right folks, we are back on the way concept presented by the Ring magazine and today I am taking a look at the face to face that went down almost a week ago. Now I don't know how I didn't see this, but I definitely missed it between Salt Papi and Tony Ferguson for Misfits 22. What are they? I forgot what it's called. I'm working the card. King of Thrones, Ring of Thrones. I'm sorry, I should have known that. But Ring of Thrones it's going down AO Arena. It features Darren Till, Luke Rockhold in the main event. We're going to take a look at the face off for the co main event between Tony Ferguson, Salt Poppy. It also has Dylan Danis versus Warren the Mechanic, Spencer and Misfits. First for you into MMA Today, I want to get into the face to face that happened between Super Soul Poppy and Tony Floyd Ferguson. Because listen, this fight is interesting for multiple reasons. I want to see if there's any mental games being played or whatever else we can take away from Tony Ferguson's mindset. Really, I just want to see where Tony's mind is because I think I know where Salt Poppy is. I know what he's going to bring to this fight when he's super dangerous. But I want to see what does Tony Ferguson have? What is he thinking is going to be different this time around in boxing versus, you know, what's going on with him in MMA and the age, experience, wear and tear, all that. Let's take a look. But before we do, I want to say a big thank you to the sponsor of today's video. And one of the coolest things I've ever done is being the smackdown champ with Drumstick. Guys, if you didn't know, this weekend I was out at SummerSlam. That's right. Day one and day two, I got to see all the WWE Superstars, the fans. I got to go to MetLife Stadium. It was awesome. And it was all thanks to America's favorite snack since 1928. Drumstick. Drumstick allowed me to come out and showcase their snack to the world. And again, it was awesome because I got to show people what it meant to partake in the best snack in the world and to just showcase Drumstick in the best way possible. On day one, I was talking to fans, having them cut promos for me, introducing them to the snacks, showing them the delectable treat between the beautiful cone, the vanilla taste, the chocolate topping, nuts as well. Everything in a delectable sweet treat. Day two, we actually got to go into the stadium. That's right. I got to go ringside at SummerSlam. Day two, where all the superstars were wrestling in, taking their bumps, entertaining the crowd, the masses of thousands of thousands of people. And I got to be there with Drumstick highlighting it all. If you guys want to learn more about why I'm so excited about Drumstick, why I was so excited to work with him and hopefully can in the future. Yes, it's because it's America's favorite snack since 1928. But it's also because they have a summer snack down sweepstakes going on right now. Click the link in the description and make sure you guys check it out for yourselves. You do not want to miss all the cool prizes that come with it. Other things that they're offering over there. Make sure you guys follow drumstick on Instagram. That link will also be in the description. And once again, check out the Drumstick summer snack down sweepstakes. Thank you to drumstick for having me out, for sponsoring this video. But now let's get back into the face to face. Let's see what happened. All right, so let's check this out. Tony Ferguson saw Poppy face to face with our guy B.L. running the show. Let's see what happened.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

This dude made that walk. I'm making the walk for my first time. You have eight fights and I have zero. Everybody's underwriting me. They're saying he gonna knock me out and everything. 90%, Tony, you're fighting a fucking info.

[Unknown Analyst]

If we're gonn the Tony FERGUSON Math again. 90%. Also, they were supposed to. They're supposed to be using these subtitles to say what he actually said. Tony keeps saying people are underwriting him. I think he means to say that people are underestimating him for this fight. I'm not sure who is Tony's underwriter, but I don't. I don't know that he understands what that word means.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Everybody's underwriting me there.

[Unknown Analyst]

They even said underestimating. They got you, Tony. Those captions saved you.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I mean, they're saying he gonna knock me out and everything. 90%, Tony, you're fighting a influence. So there goes the other 20% negative.

[Unknown Analyst]

He did it again, not even into the video. It's just the preview, and Tony is saying that 9020 again. Someone needs to get with Tony Ferguson and let him know that 90% plus 20% is not 100%. It's 110. Maybe he just thinks 110% is how his life is, right? 110% effort, 110% of fans, 110% of profit. I don't know. He. Tony has got his own way of doing things, so maybe it's just, you know, his inner workings coming out.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Any person that's got the fucking balls to walk through the door and to stay there is a fighter, bro. I'm gonna go out there on August 30th, and I'm gonna handle everything that I need to go and get that victory.

[Unknown Host]

Have you watched any of his fights? What do you make of them? Dangerous.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I'm dangerous.

[Unknown Host]

So, you know, this is your biggest moment.

[Unknown Analyst]

I was gonna say we're 32 seconds in. I don't know. Is this like a preview? Because Salt has said nothing, which, again, I don't expect him to say Anything but, like, Tony is carrying right now. Also, Tony's pants look like. Like, football pants with, like, thigh pads in them. I love it.

[Unknown Host]

Tony Salt, it's a pleasure to see you both. To be honest, I am so surprised I'm seeing this face off right now when this.

[Unknown Analyst]

I'm not going to lie, I don't even know Salt Papi's actual name. That's crazy. I've known him for, like, five years now, and I don't know his name. I'm the asshole in this situation. But just hearing Tony Salt, I don't know his name.

[Unknown Host]

It's got announced. I had to double check. I had to refresh, I think, the whole world of refreshing because they didn't believe this was going to happen. So. So I'm actually going to come to you first. When you got that phone call from Mams Taylor to say you were fighting this man, that you were fighting, a former UFC interim champion, what was your reaction to that?

I mean, I was shocked. Like, I really can't believe because. And obviously not a lot of people get this type of opportunity. And so I'm like, I'm so grateful for Misfit boxing, for giving me this fight, big fights back to back. And, yeah, when. When I heard that I was gonna fight Tony Ferguson, there's something I couldn't say. Now I'm gonna be sharing the ring with the legend, legendary fighter. And, yeah, I can't wait. That's it.

Antonio, I asked you the same question when you got the call.

[Unknown Analyst]

I mean, Misfits does clearly think of Salt Pappi as, like, a superstar. You look at his social numbers, they're ridiculous. Like, he does have a high level of social interaction. He's got charisma, he's got swagger. He can fight. So they look at him as someone that can take over the mantle, you know, to some degree with. I think it's going to be more than one person that's going to have to fill the void of KSI when he stops fighting. But he. They look at as one of those guys, even after the Slim loss, even after the Anthony Taylor loss, they look at him as a guy to lead whatever they're going toward in the next two, three years. So, yeah, I mean, he keeps getting these massive opportunities because he does deliver. Even in losses, he delivers fun fights. So they clearly see him as a star, which is why he's gotten this opportunity.

[Unknown Host]

And he said, you're fighting Salt Pappy. Did you even know who Salt Pappy was?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Nathaniel, right? Nathan.

[Unknown Host]

Nathan, Nathan.

[Unknown Analyst]

Nathan. Okay. I forgot. Yes. He's. He's told me his name before. He said Daniel, me and Tony Bo. But look at the respect from Tony here.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I didn't know when it goes in.

[Unknown Analyst]

Nathan. Okay. All right, now we do Salt Poppy is a good stage name. All right.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

To YouTube and it goes into influencers and TikTok. I don't have anything against it. I'm gonna be real. I wasn't competing when everybody was doing everything. I was. I saved it for when it really mattered, like now, which is pretty cool. So, I mean, nothing against you. I really don't know. But I know you have, what, eight fights?

[Unknown Host]

Eight fights.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Now you have eight fights and I have zero. This is my pro debut. I was never allowed to box. So it's different in mma. It's different. We have no shoes in MMA and we have to worry about takedowns. So now it's different. It's an opportunity for me to be able to go in there, play another sport. I come from multi sport background when it comes to that way, so it's awesome. As soon as I got the phone call to be able to box. Nothing against gfl, that's still there, but I need to stay busy. I like. I like to fight. I like to compete.

[Unknown Analyst]

I don't know if anybody needs to let Tony know, but GFL is not still there. I'm sorry. Like, you know, I know that Tony was supposed to be one of the big signees at gfl, and I think he was even supposed to fight Dylan Danis. I'm not sure. But someone has to let Tony know that shit is not happening. That ship has not only sailed, it set sail and crashed immediately. Nobody's protecting their neck at gfl. It's not happening, dude.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

And this dude went from a lot of big heavyweight all the way down to where he's at. And I don't think a lot of people give social media influencers a lot of credit because an athlete's an athlete.

[Unknown Analyst]

Sorry, I got to stop. Again. What did Dylan say in my interview about what salt Poppy was? Because Tony's talking about, you know, salt Poppy losing weight, and he started at heavyweight. Now he's come down to, I think they're fighting at like 160, 170. I'm not sure. But when I asked Dylan why he wasn't fighting Tony, he said, tony, Tony's fighting someone that started fat to skinny. I don't even know what Tony's doing. He's fighting someone that started fat to skinny. Dylan's the man. I know y' all hate him, but.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

He'S a goat dude in my opinion. And we're gonna go in there, he's gonna try to hit me, I'm gonna try to hit him, so it's gonna go out there.

[Unknown Host]

Have you watched any of his fights?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Of course. What do you make of them, Saltpa?

[Unknown Host]

Dangerous.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I'm dangerous.

[Unknown Host]

Can he cause you any issues?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Not unless I want him to.

[Unknown Host]

How about you? You've obviously seen his fights.

[Unknown Analyst]

Yeah, I'm not gonna lie. Salt Papi can cause Tony some issues regardless if he wants him to or not. I don't think Tony is taking him lightly. I don't really know, but the last thing you want to do, especially when you come over as an MMA guy to boxing, we've talked about it in nausea, but to take these guys lightly because they haven't trained as long in martial arts or they're not as committ committed to the sport as some of these high level veterans were or are is a mistake. Again, I'm not saying Tony's doing this, but Sal Papi has the power, the speed, the timing to cause Tony some real problems. And yeah, Tony can, can be dangerous for sure. You know, whatever he's got left, I don't know, we'll see. But out of the two of them in a boxing ring, I am leaning toward not even leaning. I am fully thinking that Salt is more dangerous.

[Unknown Host]

I've seen a lot of his fights. Like, you know, yeah, it's a big step up for me, it's a big challenge for me. But yeah, this will prove that I'm ready for the big challenge like Tony.

Have you seen the online reaction to this as well? I mean, it's been going all over Twitter. This is a really.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

He said he's gonna knock me out.

[Unknown Host]

Yes. I just like, I just can't believe what the fans are saying because look at Usyk 38, Mandy Pacquiao, 46. Tony's only 41. He's gonna be strong as hell. And I'm gonna have to like, you know, I'm gonna be struggling. Yeah, for sure.

[Unknown Analyst]

Yeah. That comparison don't work. Manny Pacquiao at 46, that was an anomaly. That was insane to see, by the way, a lot about how good Manny was as a boxer. Eight division world champion, not an MMA fighter that's 41, that's already declining in his own sport and declined in his own sport to then come over and start boxing. You're talking about Manny Pacquiao, who even at the end of his career, was still fighting, you know, losing some fights, but fighting at around a top level. And then came back and fought Mario Barrios, who's probably one of the worst champions in boxing, but still, I thought won the fight. Usyk, at 38 again, been boxing all his life, is a world class, probably one of the best boxers we've ever seen. So to act like, oh, yeah, I can't believe the fans were saying Tony's gonna get slapped when Tony is never boxed and he's 41 and he's on like a seven fight losing streak in MMA. That's insane. I want Salt to address though, when Tony's like, yeah, you said you're gonna knock me out. Say it to him. Salt loves to talk, like, talk in the ring. He will talk his shit in the ring. But this one, he even said he's gonna knock Tony out. I want to see him, you know, Yeah, I am gonna knock you out. Yeah, yeah. Here's why. But he's not, he's not addressing that. I want to see him address that.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

He said he's gonna knock me out. So I got fuel for the fire. To be able to train for the last four years in mma. Like when Khabib and Conor never wanted to fight. Cause those fucking guys are pussies. You stepped them forward on the line and you're. Yeah, yeah. A lot of people, they just don't do it. Like, a lot of the fights didn't interest me. This is a new sport. This is a new avenue for me to be able to go if I want to go play pro baseball later on. Whatever. I was talking to my agent. This is another avenue for me.

[Unknown Analyst]

Did Tony Ferguson just say he wants to go play pro baseball later on? I love Tony. I do. And I love his childlike aspiration to do all the things he never got to do as a youngster, as a child. But you are not playing professional baseball at first, 42, 3, whenever. Later on is no, in no world, in no fantasy is that happen. I love him and I hope he tries. I really do. Not even. Like, I'm not. I'm not trying to sit here and laugh at Tony. That's not. That's not the thing. I just love the fact that he doesn't ever give up. Honestly, I love bewilders me. It's nonsensical. It not. It will not happen, him playing at a professional level unless it's like a, you know, a farm league team that kind of gives him the Michael Jordan treatment. Like, all right, try it But I just love that he's like, for I still gonna do these things my age. Doesn't matter. Like, I love that. It's just that will not happen.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

And like I said, I'm not gonna bullshit it no more. I can't. So I can't sandbag anymore, man.

[Unknown Host]

So Tony said that you said you were gonna knock him out. Now he's in front of you. Do you still believe that?

[Unknown Analyst]

Good question.

[Unknown Host]

I mean, I do have a lucky one punch knockout, and that's all I can do, really. If it happens, it happens.

[Unknown Analyst]

But yeah, oh, Salt's playing like, oh, yeah, I just got the lucky one punch. Why is he doing that? We all know that you're better than a lucky one punch knockout. And if it happens, it happens. Just. Just be about it. You know what I'm saying? Talk your stuff. This isn't like a you trying to disrespect Tony thing. And I know Salt likes to be respectful and not talk, but he's kind of playing like, oh, I am just the influencer, da, da, da type of thing. I wish he would kind of stand on business with it and be like, yeah, you know, listen, I think he. I think I could touch him on the chin. You know, he's agree he's a legend in the UFC and, you know, I appreciate him for that or whatever, but he's coming into my realm and I'm going to show him why this game's different. That wouldn't be him disrespecting Tony. That would just be stating matter of factly what he wants to do. I want to see that because I know he's confident in what he's going to do. I just don't know why he won't say it.

[Unknown Host]

Tony, you fought people like Barboza, Pettis, Gaethje, the top of the food chain. Why now, Salt, Pappy?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Because Nathan's cool, man. Like, he's enough to be able to want to go out there and put his record on the line.

[Unknown Analyst]

He was like, yeah, Daniel's pretty cool guy. Like, oh, shit, Nathan.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

To anybody else that doesn't understand the complexity of walking through a fucking boxing gym door, how hard it is, it's easier to stay there. It's harder to walk through there. Get that first initial walk through there. This dude made that walk. I'm making the walk for my first time. Am I nervous? Yeah, I was a little nervous. This is boxing. But if I didn't have that nervous energy, it doesn't matter if I had him or anybody else in Front of it. I'm not gonna fucking do it. I wasn't even feeling that for MMA anymore, and it was just fucking boring as shit to me. It was just like I was just doing it just to fucking do it so people could see me compete until we both parted ways in a good. Not cut, both ways. If I got my shit and I wanted my stuff and I go back, yeah, maybe I got other things to accomplish, and I'm gonna go out there on August 30th, and I'm gonna handle everything that I need to go and get that victory.

[Unknown Host]

What's this?

[Unknown Analyst]

He's fired up, man. He's fired up. Yeah, listen, Tony left the ufc, maybe, you know, the way they. I don't know. I don't know how it was done, but it was the right decision for the ufc, obviously, to not have Tony in any more fights because he was losing consistently, taking tons of damage, consist consistently, you know, And Tony, it just didn't. Whether he wasn't into it or not anymore, he was going to continue losing fights. The competition level in the game had just passed him by. That's really simply all it was. Whether they cut him, whether he left doesn't really matter. It was a good decision. So I'm glad he's. If he's going to compete in combat sports, I'm glad he's doing this versus doing that, if that makes sense. Probably making a ton more money over here. I mean, again, the danger when you step into combat sports is there regardless. So the people that are upset about him continuing to fight, this would have happened in the ufc. It would have happened in any other boxing match. It would have happened the kickboxing. So I. I get it. But at the same time, if he wants to compete, this is probably the best option for him.

[Unknown Host]

Transition being like, from MMA to boxing, because you've mentioned multiple times now that it's a completely different sport. So how are you going to transition in this time against someone that's already had eight fights and still have a chance?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I've been wanting to box since I was little. I was never allowed to. I grew up in Michigan. My pops raised me military in the country, and I was able to have heavy bags unless I bought five balls, bottom and speed bags. I've been hitting the speed bag since I was about 14, 13, 15, something like that. And I would always break my bags and stuff, but I was. My boss tells me, he's like, I'm not paying for your school. You're gonna go to college. He's like in my roof, you're gonna go to college. He's like, you're gonna play sports in order to get yourself a scholarship. And I did pick my choice, and I did that. Now all of my stuff kind of like went down and I've collected every single side quest. You play video games, you understand side quests, you understand all this kind of shit. I did everything from knockout of the night, submission night fight of the year, ultimate fighter trophy, UFC belt. Like, dude, I've gone all of this shit. I don't really care because I'd love that stuff, but I want to collect more. I got a bunch of medals for wrestling. I got national championship, state championship football ring for wrestling.

[Unknown Analyst]

And like, like, does Tony wear his high school football, state championship ring around? Hell yeah, dude. I actually kind of with that because I know, I mean, my. My little brother, what a state title. And I don't. I don't even think he knows where his ring is. Like, you can tell. He. I don't know that Tony wanted a mixed martial artist. I don't know that he. Like the way he talks about other sports he wants to do. Maybe he just wanted to play a ton of different sports. He wants to be an athlete. He talks about football, he talks about wrestling, talks about baseball, talks about boxing. This is him again being a big kid, getting to live out his dream of doing the other sports he never got to do as a. As a kid. I think that's a cool storyline.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I like collecting shit, and I don't like collecting losses. I had to demonstrate to everybody what humility was so that way everybody could understand that nobody's perfect. And if they took it with a grain of salt, maybe they learned something.

[Unknown Host]

So when you hear all these accolades.

[Unknown Analyst]

I don't know what that meant from Tony. He said he had to demonstrate humility so everybody can understand how to take a loss. Is he like. Is he acting like, oh, I had to lose so I could show people how to lose? I don't think he wanted to lose those fights. I don't know. I'm just. I don't know. Sometimes Tony be saying stuff, I'm like, maybe it's going over my head. I don't know.

[Unknown Host]

And you see what it's achieved. How do you maintain the confidence and the calmness that you have right now?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Cook.

[Unknown Host]

Cook.

Yeah. And, yeah, I do have a chance because I do have one punch, knockout power. And yeah, we'll just see what happened August 30th, and I'll be ready for the best.

Tony Ferguson Is that how you win the fight? It's through a knockout punch.

I can. I can try to win, like, you know, by points, but I always want to go for the knockout because for. Of the knockout bonus.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

All right, There's a knockout bonus.

[Unknown Host]

Yes.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

You know, I was broke when I was in the Ultimate Fighter. I was broke in the Ultimate Fighter. I went there, like, my wife was helping me pay my rent, and my. And I go in there. Ramsey Nigem said this. He's like, 5K, baby. Because he went in there and he finished somebody.

[Unknown Host]

It's more.

I think it's 25.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I was like, wait, yeah. Oh, here we go. We're making rent now.

[Unknown Host]

There's Fighter of the Night as well.

Fighter of the night, yeah.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Two chances, 50K. It's a big deal. Maybe we can make him double it.

[Unknown Host]

When a crossover boxer tells you that.

[Unknown Analyst]

They think, yeah, I mean, listen, that's a cooler answer from Salt. Poppy, like, yeah, I maybe could win. Even though he's still trying to play coy. Like, ah, you know, I just got the one knockout punch. That's really all I got. Bullshit. But saying like, yeah, listen, I want to finish the fight. I want to get that knockout bonus. And then Tony being like, let's double it, ma'. Ams. Open your pocketbook, son. Open up the wallet, cut the check.

[Unknown Host]

They can knock you out. What's your reaction to that?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Nothing. I've. I've played. I've been wrestling for a long time in freestyle wrestling, where you had to stand next to your opponent, right? So I've had people, mean, mug me, try to be my best friend, hate me, not, say, doing all this stuff. And I've got thousands of wrestling matches with shoes on, different.

[Unknown Host]

So you.

[Unknown Analyst]

He has a good point. Like when Salt says he wants to knock Tony out, Tony's like, I've heard it all. Like, it doesn't bother me. I've had people try to be nice, be mean, not say anything, mean mug me. But then he adds the. With the shoes on part. I know he's fighting in shoes, and it is different than fighting not with shoes on. But I don't know what the. If he thinks the ultimate difference between MMA and boxing is I get to wear shoes. I mean, that's not it, but I. He keeps focusing on the shoes. Maybe he just has some sick boxing shoes he wants to wear. He's like, yo, I'm showing up at Jordans, Amanda Serrano style. What's up, dude? Finally. I've been trying to wear Jordan in all My fights.

[Unknown Host]

No, this is your biggest moment on this stage when it comes to misfits. Boxing.

Yeah.

How are you going to deal with that pressure, the anxiety, the nerves?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I can't draw a line on this and everything like that. Any person that's got the fucking balls to walk through the door and to stay there is a fighter, bro. Like, I'm not even playing anymore. I don't give a. And that's the hardest part is getting off your couch, getting off your ass and getting into a gym. I went to the boxing gym over here. It was 12, three, or some fucking gym. The guy didn't know who the fuck I was. For one, I didn't give a shit. I'm just there. I was asking if I could hit the boxing. He's like. And I. He busted out his laptop and seeing if he could make a schedule, like, calling this guy. I'm like, I just walked over the bag and kind of hit it. And I was like, no, this isn't where I want to be. You kind of understand where, like, with people, they kind of think like, that that's not who I want to be with. They can off. And I can understand you've probably been the same way. Because everybody's underwriting me. They're saying, he gonna knock me out and everything.

[Unknown Analyst]

I'm. I'm. So the question was asked to salt Poppy. He didn't even answer. Tony starts talking about how he walked into a gym in the UK and the guy didn't know him, so he was trying to figure out if he could let him in. Tony touched the bag and got a bad vibe, and it's like, I don't want to be here. They can off. I have no idea what the going on. What the hell is happening here.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Can understand. You've probably been the same way. Because everybody's underwriting me. They're saying he gonna knock me out and everything. 90%. But everybody's saying, Tony, you're fighting a fucking influencer. So there goes the other 20%, but all fucking negative, like, come on.

[Unknown Host]

Yeah.

[Unknown Analyst]

That'S all Bobby said. Yeah. Like, I. I don't know what the to say to that. The overall message from Tony is like, yeah, I'm. I'm pissed that people think this influencer is gonna knock me out. And then something about the fact that, you know, 90% think that I can't even fight anyway. But the other 20, even though it should be 10, think that the influencer is gonna knock me out because he's better than me in boxing too. So he's frustrated, I get it. But he's not articulating it very well. It's all. Poppy's confused.

[Unknown Host]

But I can just do my best, man. I'm gonna do my best. That's it.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Get me heated. I'm supposed to get mad at him and I'm not. When it goes into an athlete, gonna both prepare and we're gonna do our shit and we're go out there and you guys are gonna have a fucking amazing show. So you guys need to fucking buy that shit. Don't stream like fucking whenever I fight. I know you guys are buying this shit. I just fucking know because you guys have that much respect for me. I'm that OG when it comes to this original genius kind of shit. So.

[Unknown Host]

By the pay per view.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Yeah, pay per views, man. Like, seriously, like a lot of people, them, whatever they got to think and shit like that. You got a couple fighters that are on this car, they're gonna go out there and they're gonna give you their not because I'm just fighting, but this is a dope ass car, man.

[Unknown Analyst]

Dude. And Tony is right, like he has a lot of OG fans. Original genius is not one I've heard for, for og, original gangster, you know, say. But, but he's kind of both. He's a gangster, always has been in mma and he does have a loyal fan base. And I do think that that fan base will come over and watch Tony because they've watched him in the ufc. They watched him, you know, ascend to the highest of highs and then obviously they watched the losing streak there at the end. So they've always stood by his side. I think that the Misfits did a great job getting him on this card. If he wanted to fight, which it seems like he does. I personally don't think Tony should be fighting anymore, but if he's going to fight, he's going to do it somewhere and he's probably going to make the most money doing it here at Misfits. So. So fair play. And I do. I think he commands a great audience.

[Unknown Host]

Agree more. So I've just got a couple more questions before we wrap things up. I'm going to start off with you, Tony. We're only a matter of few weeks away now. What's your prediction for this fight when that bell rings, how does the fight go for you?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

You have to tune in. I don't like to talk too much about like other shit like that. You guys are gonna have to tune in. When it goes into it, you guys Gonna be in for a good fight. It's gonna be amazing. Camp. Camp's been cool already. It's awesome. Look at my new hairline, too. Thank you, Bosley. Look. I see.

[Unknown Analyst]

Honestly, how do you not love him? Look at my new hairline. Thanks. Did he say, thanks, Bosley? That's awesome.

[Unknown Host]

So awesome.

[Unknown Analyst]

He put a little hair dye in there, too. You could tell he went a little just for men. Touch of gray, right? Silver fox, Tony. I like it.

[Unknown Host]

Same question. How does fight go for you?

I just do whatever it takes to win and hope I get lucky.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Don't bite me.

[Unknown Host]

Yeah, don't bite me.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Just kidding. I'm gonna hit him. He's gonna try to hit me. That's how it's gonna go for mine.

[Unknown Host]

Well, this is gonna be one of the final times, you guys.

[Unknown Analyst]

I hate that salt. Poppy keeps saying, like, oh, I'm just gonna try to get lucky, bro. Just be about it, dude. We all know you're confident. Set yourself up. Call your shot. If he was just being humble, like, that's not even being him. Him being humble. Right? That's just him being. I'm just the influencer. It's like playing a character. I get it. But I want him to, like, you know, stand on that shit. We've seen it. You can't hide it from us anymore.

[Unknown Host]

You know, Face off before we get into fight week, so can I get some final words from you both?

Salt first, May, the best memory, sir.

That's about it. Do you have any final words for salt Pappy?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I'll see you 30th. I'll see you on the 30th handshake.

[Unknown Host]

Thank you, sir. Thank you.

It's been an absolute pleasure. Thank you so much.

A lot of people want to do handshake and, like, you know, I don't know why.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

Marsh, put your hand up.

[Unknown Host]

This guy.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

My hands are bigger than.

[Unknown Host]

He got big hands. He got big hands.

[Unknown Analyst]

I know my hands are bigger than Brock's. Tony's so awesome, dude. He's off. Put your hand up here. Let me see. Got big hands.

[Unknown Host]

Well, I appreciate both your time. Thank you so much. Been an absolute honor doing this Face off and make sure you're getting your tickets and going and watching it live on the Zone. August 30th, Manchester AO Arena.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

That's cool.

[Unknown Analyst]

That was awesome. Tony is a pleasure to listen to, even if it is a bit confusing. If he is all over the place, he's still Tony Ferguson. And the reason you love him as a fighter is because of that his personality is erratic sometimes doesn't make any sense. But you know, he's passionate about what he's doing, right. He's not doing something he doesn't care about. He's always been that way with the ufc. He's doing that now with the crossover boxing space. I want to see him stay safe. I know that's not maybe even possible because he's fighting and it is combat sports, but obviously, in my opinion, I'm still sticking with Salt Poppy winning this fight. I say obviously, and it's only. It's not a disrespect to Tony. It's just because of the situation and where we're at, right? Tony's career, his age mileage, the wear and tear, the lack of experience, specifically just boxing. I mean, he alluded to it. So Bobby's got eight fights, he's got none. Jake made a, a career off this when he first started. Boxing is bringing guys in that had never boxed, that were high level MMA fighters and exploiting the differ. High level MMA and you know, entry level box, there are completely different sports. You guys just watched me get rag dolled by Dylan Danis after having a decent enough showing in my first ever little boxing match. It's, it's not even close. And this is why you don't see boxers go to mma, because they're not the same sport and they would get ragdolled and destroyed. So I expect the same formula. I mean, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Time and time again, we've seen it. I expect Soul Papi to win this, but I could be wrong. And fight week is almost here now. We're a couple of weeks away. I'm going to be traveling all over the country, so it's the last time you guys will see me in the setup room for a while. But the next time you see me on a broadcast will be in Florida. I'm going to be doing some stuff with MVP, their prospects card coming up on the 22nd. Then I will be in Manchester at the AO arena for Misfits 22 fun fights, fun week, fun month ahead. As far as what happens with Tony Ferguson. Salt Papi, I think I know. But on August 30th, guess we'll find out.

[Jake Hofer]

I'm Jake Hofer and this is back 40, a limited series show on Wire to Hunt, part of Meat Eaters Podcast network. Each episode I'll be asking eight whitetail hunting pros a focused, thought provoking question about hunting and land management. How do I hunt the best part of the farm with less than ideal access should you?

[Unknown Analyst]

That's what the real question is. Stand without good access is not a good, good stand.

[Jake Hofer]

Listen to Back 40 on iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast, or wherever you get your podcast.

[Jeff Perlman]

I'm Jeff Perlman.

[Unknown Analyst]

And I'm Rick Jervis. We're journalists and hosts of the podcast Finding Sexy Sweat.

[Jeff Perlman]

At an internship in 1993, we roomed with Reggie Payne, aspiring reporter and rapper who went by Sexy Sweat a couple years ago.

[Unknown Analyst]

We set out to find him, but.

[Jeff Perlman]

In 2020, Reggie fell into a coma after police pinned him down and he never woke up.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

But then I see my son's not moving.

[Unknown Analyst]

So we started digging and uncovered city officials bent on on protecting their own.

[Jeff Perlman]

Listen to Finding Sexy Sweat on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hello, I'm John Lithgow.

[Unknown Analyst]

We choose to go to the moon.

[Jeff Perlman]

I want to tell you about my new fiction podcast.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

It's one small step for man about.

[Jeff Perlman]

Buzz Aldrin, one of the true pioneers of space. You're a great pilot, Buzz. That's the story you think you know. This is the story you don't. Buzz starring me, John Lithgow on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Unknown Host]

Let's start with a quick puzzle. The answer is Ken Jennings appearance on the puzzler with A.J. jacobs. The question is, what is the most entertaining listening experience in podcast land? Jeopardy Truthers believe in?

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

I guess they would be conspiracy theorists.

[Unknown Host]

That's right.

[Salt Papi (Nathan)]

They gave you the answers and you still blew it.

[Unknown Host]

The Puzzler listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This is an iHeart podcast.