Tony Ferguson got a lot off his chest ahead of his first UFC fight in almost a year.

The lightweight contender, who returns to action against Michael Chandler at UFC 274 on Saturday in Phoenix, said he believes fighters in the promotion are underpaid.

Ferguson also blasted UFC president Dana White for not allowing him to compete in boxing - or other professional sports - while under contract with the UFC.

"Dana said something the other day ... talking about how boxers are overpaid," Ferguson told reporters Wednesday, per MMA Fighting. "I asked Dana to box. He said, 'F--- no.' I'm like, 'Why?'

"I wanted to go play baseball. I wanted to go do other sports. I'm an athlete. ... But then I have this guy right here acting like a f------ drug dealer telling me I can't go and do this shit. I want to go make more money for my family."

Regarding his frustration with the UFC, "El Cucuy" said he's not alone.

"A lot of fighters have been keeping their mouths shut for a long time," Ferguson said. "You should ask some of the other fighters that have been f------ treated like shit for a long time, too. Because I'm not the only one thinking it or f------ saying it or seeing it."

Ferguson, a former interim champion, will look to snap his three-fight losing streak against Chandler.

Saturday's event features a lightweight title fight between Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje.