Arman Tsarukyan unimpressed by Mauricio Ruffy’s star-studded training camp: ‘I’m better everywhere’

Arman Tsarukyan has dismissed concerns about Mauricio Ruffy's elite training camp ahead of their UFC 331 co-main event showdown in Los Angeles this Saturday. Ruffy has prepared alongside UFC lightweight champion Alexander Volkanovski and former middleweight king Israel Adesanya, but Tsarukyan remains unfazed by the star-studded lineup.

"You cannot compare Adesanya with me, and you cannot compare Volkanovski with me," Tsarukyan told reporters at the event's media day. "I'm better everywhere." The Armenian fighter is confident he can neutralise Ruffy's striking through superior wrestling and striking combinations, though he respects his opponent's awkward style and dangerous power.

Ruffy comes into the bout riding back-to-back knockout victories over Rafael Fiziev and Michael Chandler, showcasing some of the most potent striking in the lightweight division. However, Tsarukyan believes the risk window is narrow. "It's gonna be a little bit dangerous first round, but second round should be good," he said, suggesting he will adapt once the fight progresses beyond the opening frame.

The five-round contest is being positioned as a potential title eliminator, with the winner likely earning a shot at lightweight champion Justin Gaethje. Tsarukyan, who is riding a five-fight winning streak, has expressed full confidence that victory on Saturday secures his title opportunity. When asked if beating Ruffy guarantees a shot with Gaethje, he replied simply: "100 percent."

Tsarukyan also dismissed recent complaints from former champion Ilia Topuria, who has claimed Gaethje cheated by loading his gloves during their recent title fight. "He's complaining about gloves, but it's just an excuse," Tsarukyan said, indicating he has little patience for excuses from challengers ahead of the title picture.