Reinier de Ridder is drawing significant attention after his recent victory over former UFC champion Robert Whittaker, with many fighters eager to challenge him. Among them is Paulo Costa, who ended a two-fight losing streak by defeating Roman Kopylov at UFC 318 and then began hurling insults at de Ridder online. However, much of Costa’s criticism was directed at a fake Twitter account impersonating de Ridder, which was later suspended. Despite this, de Ridder found humor in Costa’s efforts and dismissed the insults.
He really, really wants that fight I think,
de Ridder said to MMA Fighting.
He really wants to set something up. Keep trying. Keep trying, Paulo. You’ll get there.
Recent Wins Place de Ridder Near Title Contention
De Ridder’s win over Whittaker places him prominently within the UFC middleweight rankings, pushing him closer to a potential title shot—a step Costa was unable to make during their 2024 encounter. With an undefeated 4-0 record since joining the UFC, which includes victories over both Whittaker and promising prospect Bo Nickal, de Ridder is considered just one win away from challenging for the championship. His quick rise has led to increased speculation about his next opponent and his path to the belt.
De Ridder’s Perspective on a Possible Clash with Costa
Though Costa remains vocal, de Ridder is not in a hurry to accept his challenge. He acknowledges that Costa would bring excitement to the buildup but feels the Brazilian fighter is currently not at the level required to face him. De Ridder’s assessment is influenced by Costa’s recent 2-4 record over his last six fights, contrasting with de Ridder’s steady ascent in the division.
He would be a fun buildup,
de Ridder said of a potential bout with Costa.
Would be very fun in the press conference and everything with Paulo because he’s a character. But right now I don’t think he’s there.
De Ridder Plans to Recover Before His Next UFC Appearance
Since signing with the UFC following his split from ONE Championship, de Ridder has maintained an intense fight schedule. However, he is now ready to slow the pace and enjoy some downtime. He intends to watch the UFC 319 main event where middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis defends his title against Khamzat Chimaev, before deciding on his next move.
Every time since I joined the UFC, I had a fight lined up three days after the last fight,
de Ridder said.
But I don’t think it’s going to be like that this time. It will take a couple of weeks, I want to see at least the Khamzat-Dricus fight first and then we’ll see what happens. We’ll see. I think that’s smart to hold back for a little bit.
It’s been four fights in eight months. I would definitely like to spend some time at the beach, eat some nice barbecue, have a good time with the kids and the wife. That’s what I’m looking for right now but I can never stay inactive for too long. I might be in the gym sooner rather than later, but it would be nice to chill a bit as well.
Strong Performances Raise de Ridder’s Standing in the Middleweight Division
De Ridder’s hard-fought victory over Whittaker has solidified his position as a top contender. Despite receiving less attention for his win over Bo Nickal, largely overshadowed by Nickal’s first defeat, de Ridder’s rankings have improved dramatically. Now sitting inside the top five, he believes the reigning champion must be aware of his presence in the division.
I’m top five right now as far as I know,
de Ridder remarked.
I’m coming up there. Give me a couple weeks to recover and let’s see if I can climb any higher.