Brazil’s Maurício Ruffy has quickly risen through the UFC lightweight ranks with a blend of explosive striking and relentless pressure. Entering UFC Paris with a 3-0 record inside the Octagon, the 29-year-old prospect has already delivered some of the most memorable performances in recent years. As he prepares for the toughest test of his career against France’s Benoît Saint Denis in the co-main event of UFC Fight Night 258, here are his three most impressive victories so far.
1. Ruffy vs. King Green – UFC 313 (Las Vegas)
Ruffy delivered a Knockout of the Year contender with a jaw-dropping finish over veteran King Green. After backing Green against the fence with forward pressure, he landed a stiff right hand that stunned his opponent before unleashing a perfectly timed spinning wheel kick that landed flush. Green fell face-first to the canvas as the fight was stopped just 2:07 into Round 1. The spectacular highlight-reel KO improved Ruffy’s record to 12-1 and immediately elevated him into the spotlight as a future contender to watch.
2. Ruffy vs. James Llontop – UFC 309 (New York City)
In a grueling catchweight battle at 165 pounds, Ruffy showcased his toughness and striking consistency against the durable James Llontop. He controlled the early action with sharp jabs, heavy leg kicks, and precise combinations, nearly finishing the fight in Round 2 after scoring knockdowns and threatening with ground-and-pound. Llontop showed heart by rallying late with cage pressure and body shots, but Ruffy’s clean striking secured him a unanimous decision victory (29-28 x3). The win extended his UFC record to 2-0 and proved that Ruffy could thrive in high-paced, three-round wars.
3. Ruffy vs. Jamie Mullarkey – UFC 301 (Rio de Janeiro)
Ruffy made a massive statement in his UFC debut, stopping battle-tested veteran Jamie Mullarkey in the very first round. He established his jab early, breaking Mullarkey’s nose before ripping him with sharp combinations. As the damage piled up, Ruffy landed a clean shot followed by a devastating knee that left Mullarkey stumbling. A final barrage of punches forced the referee to step in at 4:42 of Round 1, giving Ruffy a TKO victory in his debut and showing the fight world that he was a dangerous new addition to the lightweight division.