Israel Adesanya Predicts Shocking Mauricio Ruffy KO Upset Over Arman Tsarukyan
Israel Adesanya has gone against the grain with an underdog pick for the Tsarukyan vs. Ruffy clash at UFC 331.
As Arman Tsarukyan enters UFC 331 on a five-fight win streak, there is already plenty of talk about him moving toward a lightweight title shot. However, Israel Adesanya continues backing Mauricio Ruffy, stating that he thinks Ruffy has the tools to derail Tsarukyan’s plans.
The former UFC Middleweight Champion has been studying the matchup closely and believes that Ruffy’s striking plus movement could open up a finish if things go a certain way.
Israel Adesanya Backs Mauricio Ruffy to Shock Arman Tsarukyan
Tsarukyan and Ruffy are set to meet in the five-round co-main event at UFC 331 on September 19, 2026. The matchup carries major significance in the lightweight division, as Tsarukyan is widely considered one of the leading contenders in the division. Ruffy, on the other hand, enters the contest after consecutive finishes over Rafael Fiziev and Michael Chandler.
Despite Tsarukyan’s credentials and major fan backup, Adesanya believes Ruffy can turn the fight in his favor. Having recently trained alongside Ruffy, former champion Adesanya believes Ruffy’s footwork could be an impactful factor against Tsarukyan’s pressure.
"I see Ruffy by KO," Adesanya said, while also acknowledging Tsarukyan's standing in the division. "At my eyes, he's the number one contender now."
What’s more, Adesanya believes the Brazilian’s movement is particularly important when Tsarukyan attempts to close the distance to bring his wrestling prowess into play. However, he warns Ruffy not to let himself get trapped against the cage, giving Tsarukyan an edge to make his grappling game more effective.
Mauricio Ruffy Has Already Put Power on Display
What really gave Adesanya’s prediction some context is Ruffy’s recent form and the way he has been finishing his opponents lately. While the Brazilian won his last two UFC fights by stoppage, he finished Rafael Fiziev at UFC 325 before eventually stopping former champion Michael Chandler in the opening round at UFC Freedom 250.
This matchup, therefore, presents a clear contrast between Ruffy’s striking and Tsarukyan’s wrestling-heavy approach. It is interesting to note that Ruffy has been training not only alongside Adesanya but also Alexander Volkanovski, allowing him to benefit from the teachings of two former UFC champions.
Tsurakyan, however, stays confident in his own ability and style, believing he can handle Ruffy’s striking. During UFC 331 media day, he stated that although Ruffy had a good striking and power combination, he believes he is better because he can combine striking with his wrestling.
