Mauricio Ruffy sent a chilling message to Conor McGregor moments after brutally knocking out Rafael Fiziev at UFC 325 in Sydney. The 29-year-old Brazilian has been compared to McGregor for his flashy style and destructive power, and he wasted no time calling for a showdown with the former dual-weight champion.
Ruffy, who suffered his first UFC defeat to Benoit Saint Denis in September, bounced back emphatically by stopping Fiziev in the second round. After the fight, he dedicated the victory to his brother, who tragically took his own life, before issuing a challenge to McGregor and Paddy Pimblett. 'Hunter, Dana White, you see me fight and know my style. How about Conor McGregor or Paddy Pimblett? Let me put on a show,' he said through an interpreter.
McGregor has not fought since breaking his leg in a loss to Dustin Poirier in 2021. He was due to return against Michael Chandler but pulled out due to injury. A potential clash with Ruffy would be must-watch, though McGregor's availability remains uncertain after he missed three drug tests in 2024. He is eligible to return from March 20.
Ruffy's rise has been swift since his UFC debut in 2024, with knockout wins over Jamie Mullarkey and King Green, the latter via a spectacular spinning wheel kick. His victory over Fiziev, a striking specialist, further cements his status as a lightweight contender. Whether the McGregor fight materialises or not, Ruffy has made his intentions clear.
