Mauricio Ruffy will serve as the backup fighter for the UFC 329 main event between Conor McGregor and Max Holloway.
Many have viewed Ruffy as an exciting option to fight either McGregor or Holloway, and he could actually make one of those fights come to fruition if he is needed in an emergency situation. With a matchup as big as the “Notorious” one vs. “Blessed,” it’s clear that the ideal scenario would be for both men to enter the bout as planned. Still, Ruffy is being viewed as a solid backup choice if necessary.
In a Instagram post, Ruffy made the announcement that he accepted the emergency fighter offer while on vacation.
“Hey guys. As you know, I made myself available for the Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway fight. I’m going on a trip to Las Vegas,” Ruffy revealed. “I took good care of myself. These guys made me train halfway through my vacation.”
Ruffy then showed himself tipping the scales at around 185 pounds, meaning he’d have around 15 pounds to shed to solidify the backup spot during Friday’s weigh-ins. The emerging Brazilian star also believes a showdown with McGregor would be easier than a clash against Holloway. Regardless, Ruffy feels his power would be too much for either man to handle.
Ruffy’s decision to take the backup role was an easy one to make. He said, “I don’t miss my chances,” and it could pay off if the stars align in his favor.
Following his UFC Paris setback against Benoit Saint Denis, Ruffy bounced back with a third-round TKO finish over Rafael Fiziev. It was a bonus-winning effort for Ruffy, who went on to stop Michael Chandler in the opening frame of their UFC Freedom 250 fight. If Ruffy gets the call to step inside the Octagon on Saturday, it would be the biggest bout of his career up to this point.
Do you like Mauricio Ruffy as the emergency fighter in case something goes awry with the Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway rematch? Share your opinion in the comments below.
