Justin Gaethje has spoken clearly about a pullout. He said Arman Tsarukyan blew his title shot due to a weight problem. Gaethje said Tsarukyan withdrew because of it. He also said Tsarukyan will be Ruffy's first real test in the UFC. His comments drew attention to 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 is set for 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 raises the stakes for Ruffy's next fight. The curse gives the card an uneasy feel. The main event is still set. That has turned a spotlight on the event.