UFC

Michael Chandler Predicts Ruffy Victory Over Tsarukyan at UFC 331

September 15, 2026Pablo Navarro3 мин

Mauricio Ruffy's previous opponent, Michael Chandler, foresees a decisive finish for Ruffy in the UFC 331 co-main event.

The UFC 331 lightweight bout between Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Ruffy, a potential No. 1 contender fight, is scheduled for Saturday in Los Angeles. Tsarukyan, currently the UFC's top lightweight contender, aims to secure another title opportunity against the emerging talent Ruffy.

The flyweight title rematch between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja will headline UFC 331.

The winner of the Tsarukyan versus Ruffy fight is anticipated to challenge reigning lightweight champion Justin Gaethje following UFC 331. Ruffy, known for his recent victories over Rafael Fiziev and Michael Chandler, is recognized as one of the division's most formidable strikers.

While many anticipate Tsarukyan will attempt to take the fight to the ground to neutralize the skilled Brazilian, one of Ruffy's notable rivals believes UFC 331 could feature an upset.

Michael Chandler's Take on Ruffy vs. Tsarukyan

During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, UFC lightweight contender Michael Chandler offered his perspective on the Ruffy vs. Tsarukyan matchup.

Chandler commented, "Arman is a fighter who performs well, stays active, and puts himself out there. He certainly has a solid strategy to defeat Mauricio Ruffy. The question is whether he can execute that plan. I believe Ruffy will land some significant strikes on him."

"Arman will likely pursue a takedown, as he's unlikely to engage in a striking battle with Ruffy. He'll apply pressure, something I couldn't achieve. However, I think Ruffy has gained momentum, and Arman might be experiencing some ring rust."

Chandler concluded, "Mauricio Ruffy is a skilled fighter, perhaps more so than many realize. Therefore, I'm picking Ruffy in this fight."


English Translation and Rewritten Text:

Mauricio Ruffy's former opponent, Michael Chandler, predicts Ruffy will secure a finish against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 331.

The upcoming UFC 331 on Saturday in Los Angeles features a significant lightweight bout as a co-main event between Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Ruffy. This fight is considered a potential title eliminator. Tsarukyan, the UFC's top-ranked lightweight, seeks another path to a title shot against the ascendant Ruffy.

The flyweight championship rematch between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja is set to headline UFC 331.

The winner of the Tsarukyan-Ruffy contest is widely expected to face reigning lightweight champion Justin Gaethje post-UFC 331. Ruffy, who has recently defeated notable fighters like Rafael Fiziev and Michael Chandler, is recognized as one of the division's most dangerous strikers.

While many analysts predict Tsarukyan will aim to take the fight to the ground, thereby challenging the skilled Brazilian in unfamiliar territory, one of Ruffy’s most notable rivals suggests the UFC 331 card is set for an upset.

Michael Chandler on Ruffy vs. Tsarukyan

During a recent interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, UFC lightweight contender Michael Chandler shared his assessment of the Ruffy versus Tsarukyan matchup.

Chandler stated, "Arman possesses qualities that make him a strong contender; he fights effectively, stays active, and positions himself well. He certainly has a viable strategy to overcome Mauricio Ruffy. However, the critical factor is his ability to execute that strategy. I anticipate Ruffy will land some powerful shots on him."

"Arman will undoubtedly attempt a takedown, as standing and trading with Ruffy is not his preferred approach. He will aim to impose pressure, something I was unable to accomplish effectively. Nevertheless, I believe Ruffy is currently on an upward trajectory, while Arman might be experiencing a period of inactivity."

Chandler concluded, "Mauricio Ruffy is a capable fighter, arguably more so than many people acknowledge. Consequently, my prediction favors Ruffy in this particular contest."