Following his win over rising contender Bo Nickal, Reinier de Ridder is positioning himself as a serious challenger to Dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title. De Ridder aims to bypass the usual contenders and secure a title shot at UFC 319, especially if Khamzat Chimaev experiences another unexpected withdrawal due to health or other issues.
The upcoming UFC 319 event on August 16 will feature du Plessis defending the 185-pound championship, with Chimaev set as his opponent. Considering Chimaev’s past difficulties with making fights, de Ridder has expressed interest in stepping in should another last-minute change occur. As Nassourdine Imavov, who was initially designated backup for the fight, has since pulled out to face Caio Borralho instead, the event no longer has a clear replacement ready.
De Ridder, who is preparing to fight former champion Robert Whittaker in Abu Dhabi this weekend, hopes to recover quickly and take advantage of any opportunity to challenge for the title at UFC 319. During an interview with Submission Radio, he hinted at this possibility with a touch of humor, stating:
“I’m still hoping Khamzat pulls out last minute. It’s two weeks after my fight, so maybe we can still get lucky… That’d be nice, that’d be nice. Maybe not too nice to make weight again, but we can discuss the terms after.” —Reinier de Ridder, Former ONE Championship Two-Division Champion
De Ridder’s View on the Du Plessis vs. Chimaev Matchup
The clash between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev is widely regarded as uncertain, with opinions divided on who has the advantage. Some predict that du Plessis will dominate if he secures an early finish, while others believe the South African’s chances improve if the fight extends into later rounds. De Ridder, having trained alongside both fighters, sides with the latter perspective.
He shared his thoughts on Submission Radio, explaining his prediction for the bout:
“I just don’t see Khamzat finishing him early, and I see Dricus building in the third, fourth, [and] fifth round. I see him edging it out… I do think [du Plessis can survive Chimaev’s wrestling in the initial rounds].” —Reinier de Ridder
This insight reflects a calm and measured analysis of the fighters’ strengths, suggesting du Plessis has the endurance to wear down Chimaev over time, despite Chimaev’s early aggression and wrestling skills.
The Potential Implications for UFC 319 and the Middleweight Division
If Khamzat Chimaev faces another last-minute setback prior to UFC 319, Reinier de Ridder is prepared to seize the moment and challenge for the middleweight title. With no clear backup fighter currently assigned, the possibility of a reshuffle remains open.
De Ridder’s quick turnaround from his upcoming fight against Robert Whittaker to a title bout would mark a significant leap in his UFC career, signaling his ambition and readiness. Meanwhile, the middleweight division continues to hold fans’ attention as the outcome of UFC 319 could reshape the championship landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Khamzat Chimaev a millionaire?
A. Khamzat Chimaev’s Net Worth Exceeds $3 Million Right now, Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth is about $3 million. At 30 years old, he is incredibly wealthy and very famous in Russia.
Q. Is Khamzat Chimaev rich?
A. As of now, Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth is about $3 million. At 30 years old, he is extremely wealthy and a major celebrity in Russia. This MMA star has won all 14 of his professional matches, with 12 victories coming before the final bell.
Q. Who is better, Khamzat Chimaev or Khabib?
A. Chimaev, definitely. Even though Khabib and Islam are excellent, the Chechen fighter has superior skills. His pure grappling and wrestling often lead to uneventful matches.
Q. Does Khamzat Chimaev have a disease?
A. A 30-year-old got Covid in December 2020 and is still dealing with long-term symptoms, having only competed four times in four years.