Mauricio Ruffy details Australia training camp ahead of Arman Tsarukyan fight

Mauricio Ruffy made significant sacrifices to prepare for the biggest fight of his career. The Brazilian lightweight accepted a short-notice matchup against Arman Tsarukyan and spent nearly four weeks training in Australia, away from his family, as he prepares for Saturday's UFC 331 co-main event.

Despite having to stay almost a month away from his family, Ruffy believes the training camp was worth the sacrifice. The Brazilian praised the methods he experienced while training with Alexander Volkanovski in Australia and explained why the opportunity to potentially earn a title shot made him accept the fight on short notice.

Mauricio Ruffy Praises Training Camp in Australia

After accepting the matchup with Tsarukyan, Ruffy immediately traveled to Australia, where he spent almost four weeks preparing for the No. 2 lightweight contender. The Brazilian was particularly impressed by the team's approach to grappling, highlighting the importance of developing the right mindset rather than focusing only on techniques.

"I accepted the fight, went straight to Australia and stayed there for almost four weeks," Ruffy told Ag Fight. "Their training method is really good. More than a strike or a position, what matters most to me is the mindset throughout the fight, step by step. The mindset they have is phenomenal for the grappling game, the best I've had access to so far."

Mauricio Ruffy Reveals Sacrifice of Leaving Family Behind

Although Ruffy was pleased with his preparation in Australia, the training camp came with a personal cost. The 30-year-old had to spend important family dates away from his children while focusing on his preparation for Tsarukyan.

"My son's birthday was yesterday, and my daughter's was the day before yesterday, and I'm there working, training and trying to improve," Ruffy said. "I went through a lot there in Australia, getting smashed several times for long periods. But when I get back to Brazil, we'll have a party to celebrate. The important thing is that we talked over the phone, and they were very happy."

Mauricio Ruffy Discusses Potential UFC Title Shot

Ruffy's decision to accept the fight on short notice was also influenced by what could be at stake. The Brazilian revealed that a potential title shot has already been discussed, although nothing has been signed yet. With Tsarukyan expected to challenge for the lightweight title, Ruffy believes a victory over him could put him next in line for the belt.

"It has already been discussed (the title shot), but nothing has been signed," Ruffy said. "But we know how the UFC works: it depends a lot on your performance and how you win. If I beat Arman Tsarukyan, who is the guy who's going to fight for the title, I believe I'll get that opportunity. That was the reason we accepted the fight on such short notice."

Ruffy will look to make the most of the opportunity when he faces Tsarukyan at UFC 331 on Saturday.