Crossword Genius

Ruler I haven't clued cryptically? (4,3,8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ivan the terrible

'ruler' is the definition.
(16th-century tsar of Russia)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for ivan the terrible that I've seen before include "First tsar of all Russia" , "despot" , "Russian tsar" , "Dreadful ruler" , "Dictator" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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