Ruffy On Champion Mentality Ahead Of Tsarukyan

Mauricio Ruffy says he has developed a champion's mindset going into his bout with Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 331 this weekend.

The lightweight knockout artist faces Tsarukyan on Saturday at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles in the biggest test of his career. Ruffy, who has stopped 13 of his 14 opponents inside the distance, told reporters at a UFC 331 media day that he's made significant improvements ahead of the pivotal matchup, according to MMA Junkie.

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Ruffy Credits Training Camp Evolution

"I've become a better fighter and I think the champion has to have that mentality," Ruffy said. "I have to bring in that mindset because there's so many lions in front of you to come into the den and take it away from you."

Ruffy credited his work with Alexander Volkanovski for pushing him outside his comfort zone and helping him evolve as a complete fighter. The Brazilian has finished all but one of his victories by knockout or TKO, while Tsarukyan has been stopped just once in his professional career, back in his second fight in late 2015.

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UFC CEO Dana White has not confirmed whether the winner earns a title shot, but a dominant performance would strengthen the case. If Ruffy can become the first fighter to stop a prime version of Tsarukyan, he could secure his path to gold.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Mauricio Ruffy claims he’s evolved into ‘champion mentality’ ahead of Arman Tsarukyan fight at UFC 331