Brazilian lightweight striker Mauricio Ruffy has been named the official backup fighter for the UFC Freedom 250 main event in Washington D.
C. on June 14.
Ruffy replaces Arman Tsarukyan, who declined the role due to a conflicting grappling match the day before the event.
The promotion needed a contingency competitor for the title fight between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje to guard against late cancellations.
Ruffy, already scheduled to face Michael Chandler on the main card, confirmed his new assignment during media day.
“I am 100% dedicated to this and I will be ready to fight for a championship,” Ruffy said.
The 29-year-old striker is cutting weight for his bout and will be on site, ensuring the UFC has an active athlete available if needed.
“I’ll be making championship weight in case the UFC needs me,” Ruffy added.
A win over Chandler could boost Ruffy’s ranking in the lightweight division.
If Topuria wins and moves up in weight, Ruffy could be positioned for a vacant title shot.
