One of the leading MMA fighters in Brazil today, Mauricio Ruffy faces the most important fight of his career. At UFC 331 , an event taking place this Saturday (19), in California (USA), the Brazilian will face the feared Arman Tsarukyan , in a fight that is very important for the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). And, despite being considered the underdog to win, the athlete is not intimidated by the Armenian's status, nor does he shrink from the responsibility.
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On the contrary, at the UFC 331 media day , Ruffy exuded confidence in victory, even taunting his opponent. Since Los Angeles is home to the largest Armenian community outside of the country, Tsarukyan will naturally have the support of the crowd and will thus be fighting 'at home'.
However, the Brazilian ignores this factor and doesn't see himself as fighting in hostile territory, much less being treated as an enemy. Especially since, as one of the most exciting fighters on the UFC roster, Ruffy emphasizes that he's never alone, as he has fans all over the world.
“I have many fans here. I receive many messages and affection from people wherever I go. In the end, the best man wins. I believe the UFC has a lot of affection for me, the fans always support me, they like my fighting style. It's a style that sells itself. That's it, we'll give them what they want. And they want to see a knockout, right? They want to see two fighters constantly trying to win. Let's go,” he said.
“I’m focused on giving my best and the fans are going to enjoy it. I thought Tsarukyan was from Armenia. He’s from Los Angeles? I think I’ll beat him with the crowd support, huh? Because I’m American, Brazilian, and Australian, so I have a strong team here. When the octagon door closes, there are two fighters, and whoever is stronger cries less. That’s what we say in Brazil. So, we’ll see how it unfolds,” he concluded.
Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Ruffy face off tensely, promoting a fight in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube/UFC
Mauricio Ruffy's history in the UFC
Mauricio Ruffy , 30, is part of the UFC's lightweight elite. Discovered on the Contender Series reality show in 2023, the Brazilian debuted in the world's largest MMA organization a year later, winning five fights, four by knockout, and losing one. Currently, he is ranked tenth in the division. His main victories were against Bobby Green , Michael Chandler , and Rafael Fiziev.
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