Mauricio Ruffy might be a long shot right now, but MMA is a sport built on long shots. From Jorge Masvidal’s late-career resurgence to Michael Bisping’s last-minute title win, anything can happen
By targeting Makhachev and invoking the name of McGregor, Ruffy is setting the stage for something bigger than himself.
Whether it becomes a reality or remains a fantasy, one thing is clear—he isn’t afraid to dream big. And in a sport like MMA, that’s half the battle.
Mauricio Ruffy’s desire to have Conor McGregor in his corner is not just about strategy—it’s about legacy, symbolism, and standing firm against the most dominant fighting dynasty of the modern MMA era.
While the Irish icon has yet to formally take on this role, the interest from fighters like Paul Hughes shows that McGregor’s legend transcends his own fights.
He may no longer be the king of the lightweight division, but in the minds of many rising fighters, having McGregor by your side still means going into battle with royalty.
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Mauricio Ruffy: A Rising Contender with Big Dreams
Mauricio Ruffy may not yet be a household name in the UFC’s talent-rich lightweight division, but that hasn’t stopped the Brazilian from dreaming big—title shot big.1
Despite not cracking the top 15 rankings, Ruffy already has his sights set on a matchup with current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
Even more intriguing? He wants Conor McGregor, one of MMA’s biggest icons, to stand by his side when that day comes.
In a recent interview with MMA Junkie, Ruffy pulled back the curtain on his vision for a potential title bout and the emotional significance of having the “Notorious” Irishman in his corner.
Aqui é o laboratório das minhas invenções 🧬💡😂#oneshot pic.twitter.com/pWk8XKBZbj
— Mauricio Ruffy (@Ruffymma) March 25, 2025
A Champion with Bigger Plans
While Ruffy looks to climb the lightweight ranks, Islam Makhachev may be preparing to leave them behind altogether.
The reigning lightweight champ has openly discussed his struggle with cutting weight to stay at 155 pounds. He has also expressed interest in moving up to welterweight to chase a second belt.
If Makhachev does jump divisions, Ruffy’s fantasy match might remain just that—a dream. The timeline doesn’t currently favor the Brazilian, especially if Makhachev chooses to follow the same path Khabib did and retire early after cementing his legacy.
The Power of Ambition in MMA
Although critics might scoff at Ruffy’s long-term aspirations, it’s worth noting that ambition is often the fuel for great achievements in MMA. Every top contender once started out as an unknown with a bold vision.
Fighters like Sean O’Malley and Alex Pereira were once in similar positions—unranked but charismatic, and ready to make headlines.
Ruffy’s confidence may seem audacious now, but in a sport where confidence often precedes performance, it may be exactly what he needs to catapult himself into relevancy.
Mauricio Ruffy’s Admiration for McGregor
An Homage Beyond Style
Ruffy has often drawn comparisons to Conor McGregor, not just for his southpaw stance or his striking-heavy game, but for the swagger and presence he brings into the octagon.2
However, his admiration for McGregor extends beyond mere stylistic mimicry.
The Brazilian spoke passionately about how much McGregor has influenced him—not just as a fighter, but as an individual determined to stand out in a crowded sport.
“I want Conor McGregor there. I want him in my corner. It’s going to be us against the Russians.”
This statement isn’t just about corner support—it’s symbolic. McGregor represents a fire, a defiance, and a fearless persona that Ruffy wishes to channel when he finally meets Makhachev under the bright lights.
The Symbolism of a McGregor-Makhachev Rivalry Rekindled
Ruffy’s vision is steeped in symbolism. If his plan materializes, it would place Conor McGregor just feet away from Khabib Nurmagomedov—Islam Makhachev’s mentor and close friend.
Their bitter rivalry is legendary, culminating in one of the UFC’s most dramatic fights and post-fight brawls at UFC 229.
By involving McGregor, Ruffy isn’t just building a fight; he’s reigniting one of MMA’s most infamous storylines—McGregor vs. Khabib, part two, only with new generals at the forefront.
This time, it would be Ruffy representing the Irishman’s legacy and Makhachev representing Khabib’s dominance.
Reality Check: The Distance Between Dreams and Rankings
Despite the hype and ambition, Mauricio Ruffy still has significant ground to cover before he gets anywhere near a title shot.
As of now, he hasn’t broken into the top 15 rankings, and UFC title opportunities aren’t handed out based on potential—they’re earned through a series of grueling, high-stakes matchups against elite competition.
While Ruffy’s recent spinning wheel kick knockout of King Green at UFC 313 was highlight-reel material, he’ll need several more performances like that—and against increasingly tough opponents—to even sniff the top five.
Building the Right Resume: What Ruffy Needs to Do Next
If Mauricio Ruffy wants to fast-track his way to a title shot, he’ll need to do more than just talk the talk.
Here are some critical steps that could bring him closer to his dream:
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Defeat Ranked Opponents – He must start calling out and defeating fighters ranked between #10 and #15 to establish credibility.
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Stay Active – A consistent schedule with 2–3 fights per year is essential to climb the rankings quickly.
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Finish Fights – Highlight-reel knockouts and submissions make fighters memorable to both fans and UFC matchmakers.
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Build a Narrative – Keeping his Conor-Makhachev story alive in interviews and social media will generate interest even if the rankings haven’t caught up yet.
Mauricio Ruffy: The Role of McGregor
Inspiration, Coach, or Comeback Catalyst?
McGregor’s current role in the UFC landscape is uncertain. He hasn’t fought since July 2021, when he suffered a leg injury against Dustin Poirier. While he has teased a comeback several times, no fight has materialized.3
Could cornering a rising star like Ruffy spark McGregor’s competitive flame once more? It’s possible.
The Irishman has always thrived on storylines and rivalries, and being part of another clash with Team Khabib—even vicariously—might be too tempting to resist.
Moreover, if McGregor publicly backs Ruffy, it could give the Brazilian an unprecedented media boost, propelling him from promising prospect to viral star.
What Fans Think: Polarizing Yet Intriguing
Reactions from fans have been mixed. Some admire Ruffy’s courage and vision, while others feel he’s biting off more than he can chew.
The MMA world is filled with fighters who talk big but never break through the top 10. The difference lies in execution—and consistency.
Still, there’s a compelling energy in Ruffy’s comments. His ambition gives fans a potential new narrative to follow in the crowded lightweight division, and his willingness to challenge the very best is refreshing.
Brazilian Roots, Global Aspirations
Mauricio Ruffy’s rise reflects a new era of Brazilian MMA fighters who combine technical excellence with marketable personas.
From Charles Oliveira to Alex Pereira, Brazilian stars are no longer just jiu-jitsu machines—they’re strikers, entertainers, and global figures.
Ruffy wants to join that list. And with McGregor as a source of inspiration, he’s not just trying to win titles—he’s trying to create moments that transcend the cage.
The Road Ahead: Ruffy’s Make-or-Break Phase
The next 18 months will be crucial. If Ruffy wants to keep the Makhachev dream alive, he’ll need at least 2–3 big wins, ideally with finishes.
The UFC is a meritocracy at heart, and talk alone won’t move him up the rankings.
However, if he does keep winning, and if McGregor does stand beside him in a corner one day, it could make for one of the most compelling fight week stories in UFC history—Ruffy vs. Makhachev, with McGregor and Khabib back in opposing corners.
Even if the fight never happens, the buildup alone would be unforgettable.
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Mauricio Ruffy: The Fight That Sparked a Feud
Despite Hughes’ public appeal, the McGregor-Hughes cornering collaboration never came to fruition.
When Hughes stepped into the cage against Usman Nurmagomedov, McGregor was notably absent. Hughes went on to lose the bout, and the aftermath only furthered tensions between the two Irishmen.
In a post-fight interview, Hughes made a controversial comment referencing Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Though he intended it as a jab at the Dagestani wrestling dominance, it was enough to irk McGregor, who took to social media to slam Hughes for what he deemed “disrespectful and unnecessary.”
The online feud spiraled, with McGregor accusing Hughes of trying to profit off his legacy while showing no loyalty to his countryman.
Hughes fired back, suggesting that McGregor had turned his back on Irish fighters who once looked up to him as a mentor and leader.
McGregor and the Nurmagomedovs: A Rivalry Etched in MMA Lore
McGregor’s rivalry with Khabib Nurmagomedov remains one of the most heated in MMA history.
Their UFC 229 clash was more than just a title fight—it was a cultural and personal battle, amplified by national pride, religious digs, and personal attacks.
The bout ended with Khabib submitting McGregor and jumping into the crowd to attack McGregor’s cornermen, causing a massive brawl.
Since then, the Nurmagomedov clan has become symbolic of the Dagestani stronghold in MMA. Fighters like Islam Makhachev and Usman Nurmagomedov have only carried that dominance forward.
Having once faced and fallen to this dominant style, McGregor’s experience makes him an asset for fighters preparing for similar challenges.
Mauricio Ruffy: McGregor as Coach and Mentor
Though McGregor’s days of competing are up in the air, his influence remains strong.
With The Ultimate Fighter appearances and coaching stints, McGregor has shown an ability to mold fighters—not just in technique but in mentality.
If he ever takes on a full-time role as a cornerman or mentor, fighters like Ruffy or Hughes could benefit significantly.
His insights into elite-level preparation, understanding of global promotion, and strategic mind could elevate the careers of young up-and-comers.
So far, McGregor has never formally cornered a fighter against any Nurmagomedov family member or close associate. While he’s trained with other Irish and European fighters, stepping into the corner would represent a formal return to the rivalry that defined the peak of his career.
Whether McGregor ever agrees to corner someone against a Dagestani opponent remains to be seen. His decisions often blend personal motives, promotional value, and timing. But if he does, the MMA world will be watching with bated breath.
Mauricio Ruffy: Wrestling Toy
Mauricio Ruffy’s new wrestling toy figure is now available on various platform.
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The Growing List of Fighters Wanting McGregor’s Support
- Mauricio Ruffy and Paul Hughes may be the most vocal, but they are not alone.
- Fighters from Europe and even the Americas who seek to challenge the wrestling-dominant Dagestani fighters have flirted with the idea of reaching out to McGregor.
- Whether it’s for the mental edge, the media buzz, or genuine respect for his battle-tested wisdom, the idea of McGregor as a strategic corner piece is gaining traction.
- His polarizing nature only increases the allure of such an alliance.
- With Conor McGregor’s fighting future uncertain due to injuries, film projects, and business ventures, many fans and fighters wonder what his next chapter in MMA will look like.
- Coaching and cornering could
- offer him a powerful way to stay engaged with the sport while shaping the next generation of stars.
- Given his history with the Nurmagomedovs, his presence in a fighter’s corner would add layers of tension, history, and hype to any match.
- Whether he chooses to embrace this path remains uncertain, but the demand is clearly growing.
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