Ridder's Reinier after victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction X/UFC
With four wins in just eight months as a contract holder for the world's largest MMA organization, Ridder's Reinier makes no secret of his desire to fight for the middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg) in the next round. With this scenario in mind, the Dutchman already knows who he will be rooting for in the main fight of the UFC 319, which brings Dricus Du Plessis e Khamzat Shimaev in a duel valid for the category title.
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According to the former One Championship champion, it would be better for his plans if the South African successfully defended the belt and became the first fighter to defeat Chimaev as a professional.
"If Khamzat wins decisively, he'll be a big name, and that could mean he'll be out of action for a long time afterward. So, maybe it's better if Dricus wins, and then we can fight in four to six months. So, I hope it'll be cool if Dricus wins and we can line up," he said.
Ridder's Reinier prefers Dricus to beat Khamzat Shimaev — says it's better for activity and hopes to line up a fight in 4–6 months ⏱️
"If Khamzat wins decisively, he'll be a huge name, and that might come with him taking a lot of time off after. So it might be better if… pic.twitter.com/oZTl0CXCq7
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) August 4, 2025
The fighter's concern may be explained by the Chechen's low frequency. Although he debuted in the organization and fought his first three fights in just over two months, Chimaev has only stepped into the octagon twice in the last two years.
Reinier de Ridder is coming off the biggest win of his career
De Ridder is coming off a victory against Robbert Whittaker in the main event of the UFC Abu Dhabi, at the end of July. In total, the jiu-jitsu black belt has 21 professional victories, 14 of which were by submission. Before debuting in the Ultimate, the Dutchman captured the One Championship middleweight (up to 93 kg) and light heavyweight (up to 102 kg) belts simultaneously.
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