Arman Tsarukyan vs Mauricio Ruffy Announced for UFC 331 as Charles Oliveira Mourns Death of Training Partner

Arman Tsarukyan is set to return to the UFC against Brazilian knockout artist Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event of UFC 331.

Arman Tsarukyan vs Mauricio Ruffy Announced for UFC 331 as Charles Oliveira Mourns Death of Training Partner

Arman Tsarukyan takes on Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 (via MMA Mania, X)

Arman Tsarukyan is finally set to return to the UFC and will face Brazilian star Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event of UFC 331. However, the matchup came after rumors surrounding Charles Oliveira’s status on the card following the passing of his teammate and UFC fighter Allan Nascimento.

The fight against Oliveira became a major fan-favorite matchup for Tsarukyan because of their first meeting at UFC 300. Tsarukyan edged out a controversial split decision victory over the Brazilian veteran. Since then, Oliveira has competed multiple times and currently holds the BMF title after defeating Max Holloway at UFC 326.

Tsarukyan returned to the UFC at UFC Qatar in 2025 after dealing with back injuries and a nine-month suspension. He regained momentum by making short work of UFC veteran Dan Hooker. Since then, he has competed eight times under the RAF banner and twice under the Hype Fighting banner.

Oliveira had a close relationship with Nascimento due to their time together at Chute Boxe. Nascimento was still early in his UFC career with a 4-2 record before he passed away on August 3, 2026, after an apparent heart attack in his sleep. His sudden death represented a major loss that could have deeply impacted ‘Do Bronx’ ahead of UFC 331.

Ruffy also presents a dangerous challenge for Tsarukyan after competing twice in 2026. The Brazilian lightweight knocked out Rafael Fiziev at UFC 325 before following it up with a knockout win over Michael Chandler at UFC Freedom 250. His recent activity makes him a major test for the Armenian star’s UFC return.

Tsarukyan was in a strong position to earn the next lightweight title shot due to his place in the top three rankings. Justin Gaethje recently recognized the 29-year-old contender as deserving of the opportunity. However, the champion confirmed he will sit out until 2027 while deciding his future and potential retirement.

Tsarukyan has remained active outside the UFC, recently defeating Indian influencer Ankit Baiyanpuria at Hype FC Armenia. However, the victory was preceded by his first loss under the RAF banner, where he suffered a points defeat against former UFC star Colby Covington at RAF 11.

UFC 331 marks the promotion’s return to Los Angeles after almost eight years and will take place at Crypto.com Arena, formerly known as Staples Center. Arman Tsarukyan versus Mauricio Ruffy remains a lightweight matchup expected to keep fans glued to their screens.

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UFC 331 returns to Los Angeles with an exciting flyweight title rematch

Alexandre Pantoja has become one of the most accomplished flyweight champions in UFC history through his pressure, durability, and elite grappling. ‘The Cannibal’ won the title by defeating Brandon Moreno at UFC 290 and defended it four times against Brandon Royval, Steve Erceg, Kai Asakura, and Kai Kara-France.

Pantoja faced Joshua Van at UFC 323 in a flyweight title fight that ended in a shocking way. Van became champion after Pantoja suffered a serious arm injury just 26 seconds into the opening round. The Brazilian attempted a high kick that Van caught, and Pantoja injured himself while trying to brace his fall, forcing the stoppage.

Alexandre Pantoja vs Joshua Van set for UFC 331
Alexandre Pantoja vs Joshua Van set for UFC 331 (via MMA Mania)

Van has already defended his title at UFC 328 against Tatsuro Taira in a convincing performance, further cementing his position as the flyweight champion. However, Pantoja appears to have recovered from the arm injury he suffered, as the rematch against Van is set to headline UFC 331 in Los Angeles.

UFC 331 will also feature several notable matchups across the card, including a rematch between Renato Moicano and Brian Ortega. The two fighters will meet almost nine years after their first bout at UFC 214.

Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera will also look to return to the win column and snap his four-fight losing streak against Charles Jourdain on the undercard.

The event also features heavyweight matchups, including Olympic star Gable Steveson’s return against Sean Sharaf in his second UFC outing.

The card also marks Robelis Despaigne’s UFC return since 2024 as he is set to take on Tai Tuivasa. With major fights across the lineup, UFC 331 is set to be a significant event in Los Angeles.

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