Justin Gaethje did not hide his view on a withdrawal. He said Arman Tsarukyan lost his title chance due to a weight problem. Gaethje said Tsarukyan pulled out over that issue. He also said Tsarukyan will be Ruffy's first ultimate 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 stunning fashion. 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 ahead of the card. That curse looms over the fight night. The weight issue altered the build-up for the fight. That comment raises the stakes for Ruffy's next fight. The curse adds a strange edge. The main event is still set. That has brought more attention to the event.