Former UFC interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson will return to the octagon at October’s UFC 229 event against former 155-pound title holder Anthony Pettis.

“El Cucuy” was slated to fight Khabib Nurmagomedov for the promotions undisputed lightweight title at April’s UFC 223 event, but was forced to withdraw from contest due to a knee injury.

Following a successful knee surgery, which included a Wolverine-like recovery, Tony Ferguson (23-3 MMA) is now back and out to make a statement at UFC 229 on October 6.

The top lightweight contender, Ferguson, is currently riding a ten-fight win streak and was all confidence in his first statement to “Showtime”.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bm7KQ45HvBu/?utm_source=ig_twitter_share&igshid=1bwmt80xag8dx

““Technical Fall” … @showtimepettis Your Team Tried To Dog My Squad In The Stands At UFC 181 & My Coach At The Time Told Me, Dont Worry About Him… “You Cant Big League A Big Leaguer”. I Told You I’d See You Soon Kid, Now Your Gonna Have To Answer To Me Toe-2-Toe Vato. I’ll Accept A Public Apology Before The Fight If You Want To Squash It & Fight Like Gentlemen. Either Way I’m Bringing The Pain, So I’ll See You Soon Hombre. Shhhhh Be Good Pretty Boy 🤫 Tienes Suerte No Es #ufc229 👊🕶 Shoutout To The Good Coaches & Trainers Out There Making A Difference, Happy Training- Champ 🕴🇺🇸🏆🇲🇽 Time -2- #snapintuit SnapJitsu™️ @ufc @danawhite”

As for Anthony Pettis (21-7 MMA), the former UFC and WEC lightweight champion has won two of his last three fights. “Showtime” defeated Michael Chiesa via submission in his most recent outing at UFC 226.

“El Cucuy” will likely serve as a backup for the UFC 229 main event which features undefeated champion Khabib Nurmagomedov taking on former division title holder Conor McGregor.

Who are you picking to win when former title holders Tony Ferguson and Anthony Pettis square off at UFC 229 in Las Vegas? Sound off in the comments section PENN Nation!