Ruffy promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
With his impressive knockout (see below) of Michael Chandler at UFC Casa Branca , held last month in Washington DC (USA), Mauricio Ruffy believes he is very close to a title shot in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). Fueled by his victory on the biggest stage of his career, the Brazilian stated that he is even willing to fight for the interim title, should that be the option chosen by the organization.
The Brazilian sees the situation in the division as potentially advantageous to his plans. Current lightweight champion Justin Gaethje is not expected to return to the octagon this year, a scenario that opens up space for a possible interim title fight. Aware of this context, Ruffy stated that he is prepared to seize any opportunity the organization puts in his path.
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“I want to fight for the belt. I believe they (UFC) will give me that opportunity. Since Gaethje is only fighting next year, maybe they will put up an interim belt,” the Brazilian revealed in an interview with Ariel Helwani's YouTube channel.
Alexander Volkanovski 's training partner is experiencing the best moment of his career in the organization. With two consecutive knockout victories, Ruffy gained enormous prominence by devastatingly knocking out Chandler at the historic event held at the White House. The triumph solidified his name among the top contenders for the division's top spot.
Although he acknowledges that the final decision rests with the UFC, the Brazilian expressed confidence that his recent results will be enough to put him in contention for the belt. Without mentioning potential opponents, the fighter reiterated that his only goal is to fight for the gold in the division, whether for the undisputed title or a possible interim belt.
At 30 years old, the São Paulo native is emerging as one of the leading representatives of the new generation of Brazilian MMA. Possessing an aggressive style and a high knockout rate, Maurício Ruffy is experiencing the best phase of his career and awaits the definition of the division's next steps to know if he will finally have the chance to compete for the most important belt of his career.
Relive Mauricio Ruffy's knockout at UFC Casa Branca.
Mauricio Ruffy just destroyed Michael Chandler in the first round at the White House 😳 pic.twitter.com/Er80LUSPVy
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) June 15, 2026
Brazilian delivers spectacular knockout against King Green.
Still impressed by Brazil's knockout 🇧🇷 Mauricio Ruffy No. UFC 313.#UFC #UFCBR #UFC313
pic.twitter.com/bg2mmt6hsF— MMA Melotto (@MMAmelotto) March 9, 2025
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