Mauricio Ruffy has announced that he is no longer part of the Fighting Nerds team. The Brazilian fighter stated he discussed the decision with head coach and gym founder Pablo, and that they maintain an excellent relationship and plan to collaborate on future projects in a different format. Ruffy emphasized that he remains welcome to visit the team, train nearby, or work with them, and that Pablo will continue to be part of his journey. The announcement suggests the split was amicable, with both parties expecting to work together again in the future. The post includes a poll asking followers whether the change will negatively impact Ruffy's career.
Mauricio Ruffy has publicly announced he is parting ways with the Fighting Nerds, the Brazilian gym that has been his professional home, effective as of May 2026.
Ruffy, 30, competes in the UFC lightweight division and currently sits at number 14 in the rankings, carrying a professional record of 14 wins and 2 losses. The orthodox fighter from Brazil stands five-foot-eleven with a 75-inch reach, and his striking-heavy style has made him one of the more watchable fighters in the 155-pound division, averaging 4.19 significant strikes landed per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate.
According to Ruffy's own announcement, the separation from Fighting Nerds was entirely amicable. He stated that he personally discussed the decision with head coach and gym founder Pablo, and that the two maintain an excellent relationship. Ruffy made clear that he remains welcome to visit the gym, train nearby, or work with the team in some capacity, and that Pablo will continue to play a role in his career going forward. Both parties expect to collaborate again, though in a different format.
Why it matters
- Ruffy is currently ranked 14th at lightweight, meaning any disruption to his preparation could affect his trajectory in a competitive division.
- His striking-based game depends heavily on sharpening timing and technique, making the choice of new primary training base significant.
- The amicable nature of the split leaves open the possibility of continued technical support from Fighting Nerds coaches.
- Ruffy's own social media post included a poll asking followers whether the change would negatively affect his career, signaling he is aware of outside scrutiny surrounding the move.
