The UFC’s lightweight co-main event at UFC 331 will feature Arman Tsarukyan against Mauricio Ruffy, ending weeks of speculation that Tsarukyan would instead rematch the reigning BMF champion, Charles Oliveira.
Reports had consistently linked Oliveira to the bout following the announcement of UFC 331. However, recent developments revealed that the Brazilian will not compete after the tragic passing of his close friend and longtime Chute Boxe Diego Lima teammate, Allan Nascimento.
Oliveira paid an emotional tribute on social media, describing Nascimento as “a brother that fighting gave me” while thanking him for years of friendship, training, and unwavering support. The loss came just days before the pair were scheduled to host a seminar together in Virginia, making the timing even more heartbreaking.
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Given the circumstances, Oliveira understandably stepped away from competition, prompting the UFC to move in a different direction for one of the biggest fights on the card.
Charles Oliveira withdraws as Mauricio Ruffy steps in
With Charles Oliveira unavailable, the promotion handed the opportunity to Mauricio Ruffy, one of the fastest-rising lightweights on the roster.
Representing the renowned Fighting Nerds team, Ruffy has quickly established himself as one of the division’s most dangerous strikers. His sharp kickboxing, explosive power, and ability to produce highlight-reel finishes have made him one of the UFC’s standout prospects, while his composed performances against increasingly difficult opposition have accelerated his climb through the rankings.
Now, the Brazilian faces the toughest assignment of his career.
Unlike Oliveira, whose game revolves around elite submission threats and relentless pressure, Ruffy presents Tsarukyan with a striking-heavy challenge built around speed, precision, and knockout power. The stylistic shift significantly changes the complexion of the matchup despite the stakes remaining the same.
For Tsarukyan, the fight represents another opportunity to strengthen his claim for a lightweight title shot. The Armenian contender has remained among the division’s elite through victories over several top-ranked opponents and was widely expected to renew his rivalry with Oliveira after their memorable first meeting.
Instead, he now welcomes one of the sport’s hottest prospects in a five-round co-main event that could reshape the lightweight title picture.
While many fans were anticipating Tsarukyan versus Oliveira, the reason behind the change extends far beyond competition. Oliveira’s decision to prioritize mourning the loss of one of his closest friends puts the sport into perspective, while Ruffy now receives the biggest opportunity of his UFC career with a chance to announce himself as a genuine contender on one of the promotion’s biggest stages.
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