Alexander Volkanovski thinks Mauricio Ruffy is the UFC's best striker. Volkanovski made this claim after Ruffy's knockout win at UFC Freedom 250.
What happened at UFC Freedom 250?
Ruffy earned a brutal knockout win against Michael Chandler on Sunday. This came after his submission loss to Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC Paris in September.
Volkanovski attended UFC Freedom 250 as a corner man for Ruffy. He believes Ruffy's striking is top-notch, citing his accuracy and understanding of the game.
Why it matters for Alexander Volkanovski
Volkanovski's endorsement of Ruffy is significant, given his own experience fighting top strikers like Max Holloway. Volkanovski reclaimed the UFC featherweight throne last year at UFC 314.
Volkanovski's next title defense is likely against Movsar Evloev. He remains one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world after his second win over Diego Lopes earlier this year at UFC 325.
What comes next for Mauricio Ruffy?
Ruffy will continue to rise in the lightweight rankings. He spent time training with Volkanovski's team in Thailand after his loss to Saint-Denis.
Ruffy's win over Chandler was impressive, with Volkanovski praising his understudy's performance. Volkanovski's counsel clearly paid off for Ruffy.
Volkanovski's featherweight title reign continues, with his next defense expected later this year. His opinion on Ruffy's striking abilities carries weight, given his own experience in the UFC.
The UFC lightweight division will be watching Ruffy's progress closely. A title shot may not be far off for the rising star.
Volkanovski's comments on Ruffy's striking were made on *The Ariel Helwani Show*. He reiterated his belief in Ruffy's abilities, saying he's probably the best striker in the UFC.
Ruffy's knockout win at UFC Freedom 250 was a notable result. It marked a significant victory for the lightweight contender, with Volkanovski's endorsement likely to boost his profile further.