Reinier DeRidder in victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction x/UFC News
After achieving a resounding victory over Robert whittaker in the main fight of UFC Abu Dhabi, last Saturday (26), Ridder's Reinier did not leave unanswered provocation made by Paulo borrachinha on social media. During the post-event press conference, the Dutchman was blunt when asked about the Brazilian's comment, who had mocked his performance and assured him he would easily knock him out in a hypothetical fight.
"There will always be haters. Didn't Paulo (Borrachinha) fight Whittaker? What happened?" De Ridder said firmly, remembering that Borrachinha was defeated by Whittaker, the same opponent he defeated by split decision last weekend.
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Borrachinha's comment, posted on his official X account (formerly Twitter), went viral among fans after the event. In the post, the Minas Gerais native downplayed the Dutchman's performance.
"With all due respect, I would knock out De Ridder three times in any round. That said, congratulations on the win today, despite the poor fight," he wrote.
The former two-time ONE Championship champion's response comes amid growing attention since his arrival in the UFC. Undefeated in the organization with four wins, De Ridder is now expected to be ranked in the top five middleweight division (up to 5 lbs.).
It is worth remembering that, in February 2024, Paulo borrachinha faced Robert whittaker in the co-main event of UFC 298, in Anaheim, and ended up defeated by unanimous decision after three balanced rounds, but with a greater volume of blows connected by the Australian (93 against 59).
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