Justin Gaethje has opened up about a recent withdrawal. He said Arman Tsarukyan threw away his title opportunity due to trouble making the limit. Gaethje said Tsarukyan pulled out over that issue. 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 in a memorable finish. The finish stood out on the card. UFC 331 features Van vs. Pantoja 2. UFC veteran Din Thomas pointed to a 35-year curse ahead of the card. That curse remains over the event. The weight issue reset the focus for the fight. That comment raises the stakes for Ruffy's next fight. The curse gives the card an uneasy feel. The main event remains in place. That has brought more attention to the event.