UFC lightweight prospect Mauricio Ruffy has names on his mind as he looks toward his third outing inside the Octagon.
Ruffy made it two wins from two appearances on mixed martial arts' biggest stage at this past weekend's UFC 309 pay-per-view, where he got the better of late-notice replacement opponent James Llontop.
As he did on debut against James Llontop, the Fighting Nerds standout once again put his powerful and innovative striking on full display, most memorably flooring his opponent with a no-look uppercut in round two.
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Having ultimately gone the distance and collected a comfortable decision victory, Ruffy is now on the radar of most as one to watch at 155 pounds moving forward.
The Brazilian, however, isn't looking to remain a prospect rising the ranks for much longer.
During his Octagon interview, Ruffy called out a ranked contender in Benoît Saint Denis, who likely has to fight down the ladder next time out after losing consecutive bouts to Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano.
During an interview with MMA Fighting, Ruffy added another name to his list of post-fight callouts, highlighting the formerly ranked King Green as an alternative option should a clash with "God of War" not come together.
I’m very excited for a fight with Saint Denis,” Ruffy said. “I think that would be such a cool fight. Some people are advising me to go slow and whatnot, but everything I’ve been through in my life and career earns me that opportunity. The hype is nice, people are talking, and Saint Denis is coming off two losses, so it’s an interesting fight.
Another fight that would also be very interesting is Bobby Green," Ruffy continued. "I’d love to fight any of those two names. I’m hoping the UFC will send me a good name and we’ll fight soon. I’m taking a break now, but already thinking about fights.
Green has long shown a willingness to face any and everyone, including young up-and-comers looking to earn a number next to their name at his expense.
That was the case just this past July when the veteran headed across the pond to face the challenge of Paddy Pimblett in Manchester, England. Green was unable to stall "The Baddy's" rise, instead finding himself choked unconscious in one round.