UFC lightweight contender Benoit Saint-Denis was set to battle Joel Alvarez on the UFC 315 main card on May 10, 2025, in Montreal. However, days before event, Alvarez withdrew due to an undisclosed injury, Saint-Denis is unlikely to face a last-minute replacement, leaving his return in question. The French fighter aims to rebound from back-to-back TKO losses in 2024, which is a stark contrast from his earlier dominance. Known for his submission, Saint-Denis is currently the number 13 ranked fighter in the lightweight division, who was going to take on the 15th ranked Alvarez. This cancellation disrupts his chance to regain momentum on a stacked pay-per-view card headlined by Belal Muhammad defending his welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena.
Also Read: “I Should Be Fighting a Top-5 Opponent Next”- Arman Tsarukyan on Feeling Disrespected by the UFC.
Amid the uncertainty, a rising lightweight has stepped up. Mauricio Ruffy, a Dana White’s Contender Series standout, called out Saint-Denis on X hours after Alvarez’s exit. He tweeted, “Hey, UFC! How about a main event in a Fight Night against Saint Denis?” eyeing a clash against the No.13 ranked contender.
The Brazilian is 3-0 in the UFC, which is highlighted by a stunning spinning wheel kick knockout of King Green at UFC 313 in March 2025. Ruffy’s unbeaten streak (in the UFC) and flair makes him a compelling option, and that could potentially set the stage for a thrilling lightweight showdown if the UFC decides to greenlight his challenge.
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