Crossword Genius

He was a so-called king (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rufus

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This clue might be a double definition.

'he' is the first definition.

'a so-called king' is the second definition.
'rufus' can be an answer for 'king' (I've seen this before). I am not sure about the 'a so-called' bit.

'was' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rufus that I've seen before include "one killed in New Forest" , "Boy" , "redhead" , "King William II nickname" , "Red-headed man possibly" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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