Reinier de Ridder is positioning himself for the next middleweight title shot after Khamzat Chimaev claimed the belt in UFC 319. Chimaev defeated Dricus Du Plessis with a commanding performance, and with the new champion planning a quick turnaround fight in Abu Dhabi this October, de Ridder is ready to step up to the challenge.
De Ridder confidently believes he can hand Chimaev his first career loss if he gets the chance to fight for the title. He expressed his mindset ahead of a potential showdown between the two.
I believe I am a very big challenge for him. I’m interested to see what happens in the fight, of course. If I get taken down, perfect; if I take him down, perfect,
de Ridder said to Submission Radio.
If we are still standing, also great. I think I have a good chance of doing well in this fight. And, I really hopeful we can get it done.
De Ridder highlights grappling as the key factor against Chimaev
Reinier de Ridder pointed to his grappling skills as the element that could define the outcome of a fight with Khamzat Chimaev. He believes he has unique submission setups and positional control that could give him the upper hand, whether on the ground from his back or while in dominant positions.
I have some sneaky stuff from the bottom. I can really make it hard on him once I put him on the back, I think I have a good chance in this fight,
de Ridder explained.
Readiness for an October clash in Abu Dhabi
After a tough victory over Robert Whittaker in July, de Ridder confirmed his readiness to fight again in October if Chimaev goes ahead with his plan to compete in Abu Dhabi. Currently ranked fifth in the middleweight division, de Ridder is building momentum with recent wins including a knockout over Bo Nickal.
100 percent, dude, de Ridder said when asked about his availability for the October fight in Abu Dhabi.
Significance of a De Ridder vs. Chimaev encounter
A clash between Reinier de Ridder and Khamzat Chimaev would showcase two fighters with contrasting styles and strong grappling backgrounds, adding intrigue to the middleweight division. With de Ridder aiming to dethrone the dominant champion, the match could have a major impact on the division’s hierarchy and excite fans who are eager to see Chimaev tested for the first time.
Should de Ridder secure the title shot, the October event in Abu Dhabi may become one of the most anticipated UFC matchups of the year.