Mauricio Ruffy Targets Interim Lightweight Title Shot
The Brazilian says his recent knockout victories have put him in position to fight for the belt.
Mauricio Ruffy has great momentum in the UFC. In his last two appearances, the Brazilian knocked out Rafael Fiziev and Michael Chandler in less than five months. Following those performances, Ruffy feels he has earned his chance in the lightweight division. Since champion Justin Gaethje is not expected to defend his belt until next year, the Brazilian hopes the promotion will create an interim title and give him the opportunity to compete for it.
Mauricio Ruffy Expects Title Shot Next
After knocking out Rafael Fiziev and Michael Chandler in his last two fights, Ruffy believes he has done enough to enter the title conversation. Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, the Brazilian explained why he expects the UFC to reward his recent performances with a championship opportunity.
"I really believe in the UFC's plans for me. Hunter , Sean , and Dana have given me great opportunities," Mauricio Ruffy began. "They asked me to put on a convincing performance in my last fight, and I did just that by knocking out Michael Chandler."
He then recalled his past knockout wins and further advocated for a championship opportunity.
"Who knocked out Chandler the way I did?", he continued. "Who knocked out Fiziev the way I did? They've all fought each other. I'm the new guy in the mix. So I want to fight for the title, and I believe they'll give me that opportunity. Since Gaethje won't fight until next year, maybe they'll create an interim title. I'm really excited to see what happens."
Mauricio Ruffy Building Case for Title Shot
After earning a UFC contract through Dana White's Contender Series, Ruffy joined the promotion in 2024. Since then, the Brazilian has compiled an impressive 5-1 record, including knockout victories over Rafael Fiziev and Michael Chandler, while collecting three Performance of the Night bonuses. A vicious striker, Ruffy has scored 13 knockouts in his 14 professional victories. Currently ranked No. 10 in the lightweight division, the recent run has quickly turned him into one of the division's fastest-rising contenders.
Lightweight Title Picture
Justin Gaethje captured the lightweight title after defeating Ilia Topuria via TKO at UFC Freedom 250. With the champion not expected to return until 2027, Ruffy believes the UFC could introduce an interim title and hopes to be among the fighters considered if that opportunity becomes available.
