Reinier de Ridder recently expressed his views on the forthcoming UFC middleweight title fight between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev, scheduled for later this month at UFC 319 in Chicago’s United Center. De Ridder shared why he supports the South African fighter, Du Plessis, in this important matchup, emphasizing its significance for his own prospects within the division.
Du Plessis will enter the octagon fresh off a unanimous decision victory against Sean Strickland in their January rematch at UFC 312. Meanwhile, Chimaev arrives riding the momentum of a dominant first-round submission win over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 last October. This bout has drawn major attention as both fighters vie for the middleweight championship.
De Ridder explains why Du Plessis presents a greater challenge than Chimaev
In discussing the styles of both fighters, Reinier de Ridder highlighted why preparing for Dricus du Plessis is more complex than getting ready for Khamzat Chimaev. De Ridder described Du Plessis’ fighting approach as unusual and unpredictable, contrasting it with Chimaev’s more conventional style.
Speaking to ESPN MMA, de Ridder said,
“[Chimaev] would be like an easier guy to prepare for. Not that he is an easier fight, but he is more of a typical style. I can bring a couple of Dagestanis and a couple of Chechens in who wrestle pretty similar to Khamzat. He boxes pretty cleanly, like boxing, boxing style.” —Reinier de Ridder, UFC fighter
He added,
“So yeah, that is not that spectacular, not that special in a sense that it’s not as weird as [du Plessis] is, you know. It’ll be harder to prepare for [du Plessis] but if he wins, he might be the bigger name, but in my mind I’m fighting both those guys in the next six to nine months anyway.” —Reinier de Ridder, UFC fighter
De Ridder sees strategic benefit if Du Plessis wins UFC 319
De Ridder also discussed the potential implications of the fight outcome for the division, particularly concerning his own future UFC bouts. He suggested that if Chimaev wins decisively, he might take extended time off afterward due to his rising status, which could delay later matchups.
In his interview with MMA Fighting, de Ridder noted,
“I think if Khamzat wins this one, especially if he 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 Dricus wins, and then we can fight in 4–6 months. That would be best… So hopefully, it would be nice if Dricus wins and we can line it up.” —Reinier de Ridder, UFC fighter
This perspective highlights how de Ridder views a win by Du Plessis as more beneficial for maintaining activity in the middleweight division and for setting up his own title contention opportunity.
Potential impact on the middleweight division’s future matchups
The upcoming UFC 319 event not only determines the new middleweight champion but also influences the sequence of future title fights. With du Plessis and Chimaev representing contrasting but formidable styles, the fight outcome could shape matchup dynamics for months ahead.
De Ridder’s comments underscore his readiness and eagerness to face either opponent within the next six to nine months, reflecting his plans to remain highly active and competitive at the top level of the sport. As the bout approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which fighter emerges as the middleweight king and who will next step up as a serious challenger.