In MMA, religious beliefs often play a significant role. Many top-tier athletes align themselves with Christianity or Islam. UFC 301 star Mauricio Ruffy is among one of them. Ruffy gave the power of Jesus Christ credit for his bonus-winning victory versus Jamie Mullarkey.
Ruffy’s performance at UFC 301 mirrored the legendary Conor McGregor as he swiftly knocked out Mullarkey in the opening round. During his interview after the match, Ruffy called out reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Additionally, he attributed his success to the divine influence of Jesus Christ.
He said: “Three years ago, I went through really bad moments. I had several injuries which really made me wonder if this was the right career that I should follow…but then I found Jesus [Christ] and he overturned my life. He cured my wife from not being able to get pregnant and I just thank him every day now. He really changed my life.”
Ruffy is not alone in his steadfast devotion to Christ within the UFC lightweight division. Fellow contender Beneil Dariush (ranked sixth) has also publicly expressed his faith. This was notably after his victory over Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 280.
Ruffy’s combat style is similar to Conor McGregor’s at his heyday. McGregor also shares Ruffy’s fervent faith in Christ. He has even acknowledged that his Catholic beliefs have played a significant role in his life and achievements.
UFC CEO Dana White was absent from the event, but UFC CBO Hunter Campbell was present. Ruffy’s stellar performance did not go unnoticed. His flawless display of skill garnered praise from White. He expressed his love for the contender on his official social media accounts.
White wrote on X: “This guy is an absolute BEAST! One of the best @ufc debuts of all time time by Mauricio Ruffy! #NowYouKnow”
With an impressive debut under his belt, Ruffy’s trajectory in the UFC appears promising. Given the promotion’s tendency to elevate emerging talents to main event status, Ruffy may soon find himself headlining a Fight Night event or facing seasoned veterans.