UFC commentator points to the only man capable of stopping Chimaev: 'He's dangerous'

Khamzat Shimaev with belt on UFC 319 (Photo: UFC India Instagram)

Khamzat Shimaev has established himself as one of the most feared and dominant names in the UFC in recent years and, after winning the middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg) in UFC 319 last Saturday (16) by winning Dricus du Plessis, the Chechen appears poised for a long reign. However, according to Joe Rogan, there's one name that could pose a real threat to the champion's unbeaten record: Ridder's Reinier.

During the post-fight broadcast of the UFC 319, Rogan surprised by citing the former ONE Championship champion as the main name that could stop Chimaev's dominance in the octagon.

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"Reinier DeRidder, in particular, given his grappling on the ground, and also his ability to land good strikes standing up—especially that knee he lands… He's very dangerous. He's tough, experienced, and has good combinations with that long knee. It's interesting,” Rogan said.

Since his UFC debut in 2020, Chimaev has built a meteoric trajectory. In just ten days, he won two fights in the organization, marking the fastest turnaround in history. Since then, he has racked up resounding victories with his wrestling dominance and overwhelming aggression.

Additionally, the new champion broke all-time records in his last fight and holds the second-longest ground control time in a UFC fight (21 minutes and 40 seconds) and the most strikes landed in a single fight. Khamzat has also defeated three former champions: Kamaru Usman, Robert whittaker e Dricus du Plessis.

Why would Reinier de Ridder be the 'puzzle' for Chimaev?

Grappling specialist, Ridder's Reinier He is known for his refined ground game, with dangerous submissions from both the top and bottom. Unlike most of Chimaev's opponents, the Dutchman has an active and unpredictable guard game, capable of neutralizing the control the champion often imposes.

Before any possible confrontation with Chimaev, Ridder's Reinier will have an important commitment. He faces anthony hernandez in the main fight of UFC Canada, on October 18. The announcement was made by the organization last Tuesday (19).