Ruffy names Tsarukyan toughest lightweight challenger ahead of UFC 331 co-main

Mauricio Ruffy has made no attempt to downplay the scale of the task facing him at UFC 331, calling Arman Tsarukyan “probably the toughest challenger in the lightweight division” ahead of their five-round co-main event on 19 September at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Tsarukyan is widely regarded as one of the division’s premier wrestlers, and how well Ruffy can keep the fight on the feet is considered the central question of the matchup. The Brazilian, however, insists he would rather demonstrate his improvements inside the cage than discuss them.

“Talking, anyone can talk, but I like to walk, the actions do the talking,” Ruffy said.

Ruffy revealed he had been training extensively even before the bout was officially confirmed, including a camp in Thailand following UFC Freedom 250. He acknowledged Tsarukyan’s grappling will be a significant factor but stopped short of detailing exactly how he has prepared to counter it.

“I always want to get better, we know that the wrestling is going to be something that’s strong but I’d rather show [my improvements],” Ruffy said.

Despite the measured confidence, Ruffy was candid about the respect he holds for his opponent.

“I know he’s a very tough fighter, actually probably the toughest challenger [in the lightweight division],” he said. “It’s a challenge, I’ve trained a lot for this, I’d rather not talk and just show people.”

The UFC 331 co-main event represents the biggest fight of Ruffy’s UFC career to date, and his willingness to frame Tsarukyan in such terms underlines how seriously the Brazilian is treating the assignment.