Scorpion? Impressed, Adesanya is shocked by Mauricio Ruffy's knockout at UFC 325.

Adesanya focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

Company Hall of Famer Israel Adesanya approved of Mauricio Ruffy 's performance at UFC 325. At the event held last Saturday (31), in Australia, the Brazilian recovered from his first defeat in the company by knocking out the tough Rafael Fiziev , in an important fight valid for the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). Reacting to the show, the former king of the middleweight division (up to 83,9 kg) surrendered to the member of the 'Fighting Nerds' academy.

Adesanya was thrilled with Ruffy's knockout and seemed surprised by the result and impressed by his striking technique. The punch the Brazilian landed, which exploded on 'Ataman's' face and stunned him, was a long-range, fast, and powerful straight right. It's worth noting that the UFC star revealed he's a fan of the athlete's creative and fluid fighting style and even trained with him in Australia.

Furthermore, the Nigerian implied that Luffy was inspired not only by Luffy from the anime 'One Piece', but also by Scorpion from the 'Mortal Kombat' game franchise. In the series, the character is a ninja whose main weapon is a grappling hook ninja knife attached to a rope, used to strike enemies from a distance and pull them closer.

See too

Seriously? After victory, Mauricio Ruffy surprises by explaining his challenge to Conor McGregor at UFC Casa Branca.

Almost there! Mauricio Ruffy reveals serious pre-fight problems against Fiziev and celebrates miracle at UFC 325.

Pockets full! Mauricio Ruffy and Diego Lopes earn bonuses at UFC 325; see the prize money details.

“I thought Fiziev would be a tough opponent for Ruffy, but Ruffy proved me wrong and proved everyone completely wrong. He finished him. He leaned back and hit him with the whip,” said the former UFC champion on his official YouTube channel.

Adesanya's return

Israel Adesanya , 36, is finally back in the octagon. Experiencing the worst moment of his career, the Nigerian, who was last seen in action in February 2025, will face Joe Pyfer in the main event of UFC Seattle , scheduled for March 28th.

The renowned striker was dominated by Sean Strickland , submitted by Dricus du Plessis , and knocked out by Nassourdine Imavov , but remains confident he will bounce back in his career. Currently, the former middleweight champion is ranked sixth.

Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.