A surging UFC lightweight contender is game to serve as backup for the Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway 2 five-round welterweight bout on July 11.
The Irishman, who was on the sidelines for 5 years after suffering a catastrophic leg injury in 2021 during his trilogy bout with Dustin Poirier, is finally returning to the octagon this weekend in the main event of UFC 329 to run it back with Holloway, whom he beat 13 years ago by unanimous decision.
While McGregor was inactive, “Blessed” has competed 8 times. He won the BMF title at UFC 300 by knocking out Justin Gaethje. Holloway then dropped back down to 145 pounds in a bid to regain the featherweight title. But after being knocked out by Ilia Topuria and falling short, he committed to competing at lightweight.
After permanently moving up to 155 pounds, Holloway successfully defended his BMF title against Dustin Poirier before losing it to Charles Oliveira earlier this year. Now, the 34-year-old is gearing up for his 170-pound debut at UFC 329.
UFC 329: Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway 2 official backup fighter
Mauricio Ruffy, often likened to Conor McGregor for his striking pedigree, style, and fluid movement, is willing to serve as the backup fighter for the UFC 329 main event. Earlier today, Ruffy informed fans that he will be flying to Las Vegas on Monday. Currently, the Brazilian knockout artist weighs 84 kgs (185 lbs). He said:
“I made myself available for the Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway 2 fight. I am going on a trip to Las Vegas. I took good care of myself. These guys made me train halfway through my vacation… I currently weigh 84 kg, which means more or less I need to lose 7 kg for the weight class.”
Check out Mauricio Ruffy’s comments below:
Ruffy, who boasts a UFC record of 5-1, is currently on a two-fight winning streak. Most recently, he knocked out Michael Chandler in Round 1 at UFC Freedom 250.
