Mauricio Ruffy Shares Christian Faith After First-Round Knockout Victory at Historic White House UFC Event
Brazilian UFC lightweight contender Mauricio Ruffy delivered a stunning first-round knockout of veteran Michael Chandler at "UFC Freedom 250" on the White House South Lawn on Sunday, then used the spotlight to declare his faith in Jesus Christ and quote Scripture before a national television audience.
The 29-year-old Ruffy stopped Chandler at 4:29 of the opening round with a flurry of strikes following a spinning heel kick and uppercuts, earning a decisive victory in one of the most high-profile cards in UFC history. Immediately after the referee waved off the bout, Ruffy turned his attention from combat to his Christian testimony.
Quoting John 3:16, Ruffy said, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. Jesus saved my life; he wants to save your life, too. Give your life to Jesus."
The moment, captured live on Paramount during an event celebrating America's 250th anniversary and President Donald Trump's 80th birthday, quickly went viral as viewers reacted to the fighter's bold public expression of faith amid the celebration.
Victory and Proposal on Historic Stage
Ruffy's performance against the respected veteran Chandler showcased his speed, length and finishing ability. After hurting Chandler with a spinning attack and body shots, he swarmed the former Bellator champion with punches until the stoppage. The win strengthened his case for a future title shot in the lightweight division.
Following the victory, Ruffy proposed to his longtime girlfriend Nadine inside the octagon. "A while ago, when I met my wife, Nadine, I really wanted to ask her to marry me, but........
