[citation needed] The bobcat's regal stature in Appalachia made its selection a highlight of Ohio University's strategic partnership with the region.

The outfit he created included a very green hand-knit sweater with 'OHIO' emblazoned in white across the front, and was literally topped off by a large papier-mâché head made in France.

The question of who would wear the costume was complicated by the fact that the suit was hot, confining and had awkward dimensions.

The Campus Affairs Committee decided that the Bobcat mascot would be a permanent member of the cheerleading squad and would be present at all football and basketball games.

A permanent life-size sculpture of The Bobcat is located in front of the Sook Athletic Center, Peden Stadium.

[citation needed] The university Athletic Department then held a campus-wide competition to select a formal name.

Beginning a statewide fandom rivalry, Rufus gained both fame and notoriety[7] through his "legendary"[8] tackling of Brutus Buckeye.

Hanning sideswiped and attempted to tackle Brutus Buckeye, but was unsuccessful and ended up losing his Bobcat head in the process.

[citation needed] Rufus has grown from his courtside profile further by becoming a beacon of spirit for alumni, charities, and university campaigns.

The unveiling ceremony began with a video of the mascot interacting with the football team and head coach Frank Solich, culminating with Rufus roaring into Peden Stadium on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

[citation needed] In 2018, after an international space conference had been held on campus, Rufus the Bobcat was the first college mascot's name to venture into deep outer space aboard an unmanned NASA spacecraft, carrying a CD library of names.