Reinier DeRidder e Paulo borrachinha are a standout in the UFC middleweight division. Photo: SUPER LUTAS Montage
Living a great moment in the UFC, Ridder's Reinier has been attracting more and more attention with his impressive performances in the octagon. In his last appearance, the Dutchman dispatched Robert whittaker, became fifth in the middleweight ranking (up to 83,9 kg) and began receiving challenges from Paulo borrachinha.
Provoked and underestimated by the Brazilian, de Ridder showed no concern for the former title challenger's remarks, but he didn't let the situation go unnoticed. During an interview with Inside Fighting, the fighter asserted that Borrachinha isn't at his level and avoided suggesting a fight against his rival next.
See too
“He’s a funny guy. That would lead to a good press conference and some good development, but I don’t give a damn what he says. You can call me whatever you want. Call me gay every day of the week. I don’t care. Maybe one day (we’ll fight). But right now, I don’t think he’s there. I don’t think he’s at my level—although he did very well in his last fight. He’s very good against southpaws with just his body kick and straight right hand. So, he’s okay, but I think he needs to work on it a bit first,” de Ridder told Inside Fighting.
Paulo borrachinha knocked down Roman Kopylov with a punch. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufcindia
Riding high on four consecutive UFC wins, Reinier is eager to become the next title challenger. In a press conference after his victory over Whittaker, the fighter stated that he will rest for a month and then wait to face the winner. Dricus du Plessis x Khamzat Shimaev, which takes place on August 19th, at UFC 319.
You need login To comment.