Justin Gaethje did not hide his view on a withdrawal. He said Arman Tsarukyan lost his title chance due to a cut that was going nowhere. Gaethje said Tsarukyan dropped out for that reason. He also said Tsarukyan will be Ruffy's first big challenge in the UFC. His comments put the focus on Tsarukyan's exit.

At Noche UFC, Jean Silva submitted Jose Miguel Delgado with a one-arm rear-naked choke with clean execution. The finish caught plenty of attention. UFC 331 will be topped by Van vs. Pantoja 2. UFC veteran Din Thomas pointed to a 35-year curse in the build-up. That curse looms over the fight night. The weight issue changed the conversation for the fight. That comment adds heat to Ruffy's next fight. The curse adds a strange edge. The main event remains in place. That has added extra interest to the event.