Maurício de Lima Santos Bio
Maurício de Lima Santos, known professionally as Maurício Ruffy, is a Brazilian mixed martial artist competing in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Born on June 17, 1996, in Coruripe, Alagoas, Brazil, Ruffy has built a reputation for powerful striking and dynamic performances since beginning his professional career in 2016.
Early Life and Background
Maurício de Lima Santos was born in Coruripe, a city in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. Growing up in Brazil, he developed an early interest in combat sports, which laid the foundation for his future career in mixed martial arts. Details about his family background and formal education are limited, but his passion for fighting was evident from a young age.
Ruffy’s nickname was inspired by the popular anime One Piece, given to him by his brother before his first professional fight, reflecting a personal connection and motivation in his fighting persona. He currently resides in São Paulo, Brazil, where he trains and prepares for competition.
Path to MMA
Maurício Ruffy began his professional MMA career in 2016, competing primarily on the Brazilian regional circuit. He quickly made a name for himself with an aggressive style and knockout power, compiling an impressive record of 8 wins and 1 loss during his early career. Notably, he secured a second-round knockout victory over UFC veteran Ronys Torres, which helped raise his profile in the sport.
His performances on the regional scene earned him an opportunity to compete on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2023, a platform known for showcasing emerging talent and awarding UFC contracts to standout fighters. Ruffy’s success there marked a key transition from regional competition to the international stage of the UFC.
Maurício de Lima Santos Career
Early Career (2016–2023)
Ruffy’s professional MMA journey began in 2016, fighting exclusively in Brazil. Over this period, he developed a reputation for his striking ability, finishing many opponents by knockout. His record of 8 wins and 1 loss on the regional circuit demonstrated his readiness for higher-level competition.
During these formative years, Ruffy honed his skills and gained valuable experience, setting the stage for his breakthrough on a larger platform. His victory over Ronys Torres was a significant highlight, showcasing his potential against experienced opponents.
Dana White’s Contender Series Breakthrough (2023)
On October 3, 2023, Maurício Ruffy competed on Week 9 of Season 7 of Dana White’s Contender Series against prospect Raimond Magomedaliev. Ruffy won the fight via third-round technical knockout, impressing UFC president Dana White and earning a UFC contract. This victory was a pivotal moment, officially launching his career in the premier MMA organization.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Era (2024–Present)
Ruffy made his UFC debut at UFC 301 on May 4, 2024, facing Jamie Mullarkey. He secured a first-round technical knockout victory, earning a Performance of the Night award for his impressive showing. This debut established him as a rising contender in the Lightweight division.
Later in 2024, Ruffy was scheduled to fight Charlie Campbell at UFC 309, but after Campbell’s withdrawal, James Llontop stepped in as a replacement. Ruffy won the catchweight bout by unanimous decision, marking the first time he went to the judges’ scorecards in his career. In March 2025, at UFC 313, Ruffy delivered a highlight-reel first-round knockout against King Green with a spinning wheel kick, earning another Performance of the Night bonus.
However, in September 2025, Ruffy faced Benoît Saint Denis at UFC Fight Night 258 and suffered his second professional loss via submission in the second round. Despite this setback, Ruffy remains a prominent figure in the Lightweight division.
Driving Style and Strengths
Maurício Ruffy is known for his powerful striking and dynamic finishing ability. His aggressive approach and versatility in stand-up fighting make him a dangerous opponent, particularly on striking-oriented tracks. His spinning wheel kick knockout exemplifies his creativity and precision. Ruffy’s partnership with his team, Fighting Nerds, supports his strategic development and conditioning.
Notable Events and Milestones
Ruffy’s UFC debut victory and subsequent Performance of the Night awards highlight his rapid rise in the sport. His knockout of King Green with a spinning wheel kick is a signature moment that has garnered widespread attention. His contract win on Dana White’s Contender Series was a defining milestone that transitioned him to the global MMA stage.
Maurício de Lima Santos Career Wins
Maurício Ruffy holds a professional MMA record of 12 wins and 2 losses. His victories include knockouts, submissions, and decisions, showcasing a well-rounded skill set. His ability to finish fights early has been a hallmark of his career.
UFC Highlights
Since joining the UFC in 2024, Ruffy has secured multiple wins, including his debut technical knockout against Jamie Mullarkey and a notable spinning wheel kick knockout of King Green. These performances have earned him Performance of the Night honors and elevated his ranking within the Lightweight division.
Other Wins and Performances
Prior to the UFC, Ruffy compiled an 8–1 record on the Brazilian regional scene, with eight knockouts. His early career victories helped establish his reputation as a powerful striker and paved the way for his entry into the UFC.
Maurício de Lima Santos Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Specific details about Maurício Ruffy’s family background are limited. His brother played a role in inspiring his fighting nickname, reflecting a supportive family environment during his early career.
Personal Life
Ruffy currently resides in São Paulo, Brazil. He is focused on his professional career and expanding his training team, Fighting Nerds. In 2025, he announced plans to open a new training facility in New Hampshire to enhance training opportunities for his team and other athletes.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been pivotal for Maurício Ruffy, marked by notable victories and a challenging loss. His first-round knockout of King Green at UFC 313 demonstrated his striking prowess and earned him a Performance of the Night award. Later in the year, he faced a setback with a submission loss to Benoît Saint Denis but continues to be a ranked contender in the Lightweight division.
Ruffy’s commitment to expanding his training infrastructure with Fighting Nerds reflects his dedication to growth and success. His performances have kept him in the conversation as a rising talent with potential for future title contention.