Edson Barboza praises Mauricio Ruffy ahead of UFC 331 bout
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 25, 2026, 6:13 AM
Last updated Aug 25, 2026
Edson Barboza has called Mauricio Ruffy an 'improved version' of himself as Ruffy prepares for a fight against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 331 on September 19 in Los Angeles. Barboza, who has retired from the UFC, highlighted Ruffy's creativity and finishing ability, comparing him to Anderson Silva. He also assessed Tsarukyan's skills, likening him to Khabib Nurmagomedov and noting the differences in their fighting styles. Barboza's insights come after training with Tsarukyan at American Top Team. The matchup is expected to showcase contrasting styles, with Ruffy's striking and Tsarukyan's grappling.
- •Barboza describes Ruffy as one of his favorite fighters.
- •Ruffy will fight Tsarukyan in the UFC 331 co-main event.
- •Barboza trained with Tsarukyan and praised his grappling skills.
- •Fight set for September 19 in Los Angeles.
- •Barboza compares Ruffy's style to UFC legend Anderson Silva.
- 6:13 AMYahoo Sports — Edson Barboza calls UFC 331 star an ‘improved version of me’
"Edson Barboza sees plenty of himself in Mauricio Ruffy and believes the surging Brazilian has become an “improved version” of him.
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