Controversy over! Mauricio Ruffy denies leaving Fighting Nerds and reaffirms his loyalty: 'I will always be a Nerd'

Ruffy promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

Mauricio Ruffy is at the center of a controversy at UFC 325. This Saturday (31), in Australia, the Brazilian faces Rafael Fiziev in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg) and did not expect that his preparation for the important fight would generate so much discussion. All because the athlete, one of the highlights of the 'Fighting Nerds' team, alongside Caio Borralho , Carlos Prates and Jean Silva , did his camp with Alexander Volkanovski.

Upon accepting the invitation from the featherweight champion (up to 65,8 kg), Ruffy began a long training regimen with him at the 'Bangtao Muay Thai & MMA' gyms in Thailand and 'Freestyle MMA' in Australia, consequently distancing himself from his original team. Because of this, many began to claim that the Brazilian had stopped being a 'nerd'. When questioned about this at the UFC 325 media day, the Brazilian made it clear that he did not leave the team that recognized and believed in his talent, reaffirming his loyalty.

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“It’s definitely my home too, but I’m a Fighting Nerd as well. I’ll always be a Fighting Nerd. I’ve learned a lot and I learn a lot every day from all of them, from Pablo and the whole team. They’re not here with me for bigger reasons,” said the top-15 lightweight.

“I feel very well supported by the entire Freestyle MMA team. The guys are helping me 100% and I’m very happy. I know that today I have a home here in Australia and whenever I want I can come to train, spend time with them and above all I’ve made great friends,” he concluded.

Ruffy in the UFC

Mauricio Ruffy , 29, is a promising MMA fighter and competes in the UFC's lightweight division. Discovered on the reality show 'Contender Series' in 2023, the Brazilian debuted in the sport's largest organization a year later, winning three fights, two by knockout, and losing one. Currently, he is ranked 14th in the division. His main victory was against Bobby Green.

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