Rubus pugnax is an uncommon North American species of brambles in the rose family. It is found in eastern and central Canada (Québec, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia) and in the eastern United States (Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, West Virginia). The genetics of Rubus is extremely complex, so that it is difficult to decide on which groups should be recognized as species. There are many rare species with limited ranges such as this. Further study is suggested to clarify the taxonomy.