Three fights into his UFC career, Mauricio Ruffy is already being compared to Conor McGregor.
It’s not the first time for the Brazilian standout, showing shades of a karate-based Conor McGregor in his UFC debut last year. A product of ‘The Fighting Nerds’, the 28-year-old made quick work of Jamie Mullarkey in a masterful, methodical performance.
Mauricio Ruffy followed up his debut by battering a durable James Llontop for three rounds and recently turning in one of the best knockouts of all time – an epic spinning heel kick KO of King Green at UFC 313.
Still unranked, Ruffy’s winning many fans over with his unique fighting style, one that has Joe Rogan and top welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry reminiscing of a vintage Conor McGregor, who went on to capture UFC titles at featherweight and lightweight.
- READ MORE: Top UFC lightweight answers Mauricio Ruffy’s call-out after ‘KO of the year contender’ at UFC 313
Mauricio Ruffy compared to ‘old-school Conor McGregor’
‘The Notorious’ went undefeated in the Octagon at 145lbs, implementing a karate-style that kept his opponents at bay with footwork and distance management, knocking them out with a diverse arsenal of strikes similar to what Ruffy is doing now.
Inspired by McGregor’s success from a young age, Ireland’s Garry says Mauricio Ruffy is his favorite UFC fighter today.
“His style is phenomenal, and I love to watch it. It kind of reminds me of an old-school Conor McGregor,” Machado Garry said of Ruffy on Instagram.
“His style is beautiful. I think movement is next level, and I’m excited to see how his career unfolds at moment.
“He’s absolutely one of my favorite fighters in the UFC,” Machado Garry added.
Mauricio Ruffy offers to train with Ian Machado Garry
Machado Garry, ranked #7 in the welterweight division, is a terrific striker in his own right. The Irishman is 8-1 in the UFC and has trained with the likes of former champion Charles Oliveira and many high-level fighters.
As it turns out, Ruffy’s also a fan of Ian Machado Garry, having done his homework on his past fights. The Fighting Nerd is a sponge for learning, wanting to train with Machado Garry in the future.
“It’s funny to wake up and watch this video,” Ruffy responded to Garry on Instagram.
“A guy who I’m a big fan [of], that I study and watch all your fights.
“To say that you admire my style, [it] makes me very happy.
“I hope to one day have the opportunity to train together. God Bless!”