Back-Up Fighter Named For Conor Vs. Holloway

Mauricio Ruffy (14-2-0) has stepped in as the backup fighter for the Conor McGregor (22-6) vs. Max Holloway (27-9-0) main event at UFC 329 on July 11 in Las Vegas, confirming he is cutting weight in case either man withdraws before fight night.

The Brazilian arrives in that role off the biggest win of his career. At UFC Freedom 250 last month, he knocked out Michael Chandler in the first round. He holds a 5-1 UFC record with four knockout victories, including a previous stoppage of Rafael Fiziev at UFC 325. The backup arrangement exists because of McGregor’s recent history. His 2024 UFC 303 booking against Chandler collapsed late due to a toe injury, meaning the UFC has a contingency in place.