Reinier de Ridder is preparing for a pivotal fight against Robert Whittaker at UFC Abu Dhabi, aiming for a spectacular win to secure a middleweight title shot, while also staying ready for potential opportunities in the upcoming du Plessis vs. Chimaev fight.
Reinier de Ridder is gearing up for his fourth UFC fight, eyeing a shot at the middleweight title for his fifth. After a stunning knockout against Bo Nickal in May, de Ridder swiftly lined up a bout with Robert Whittaker at UFC Abu Dhabi.
The quick turnaround caught many off guard, but de Ridder eagerly accepted, knowing a win over a former champ like Whittaker could skyrocket his career. “He’s still there,” de Ridder noted about Whittaker, admiring his persistence despite past setbacks.
Whittaker’s recent fight against Khamzat Chimaev didn’t go as planned, but de Ridder believes an injury played a role. “That choke wasn’t a real choke,” he remarked, hinting at Whittaker’s resilience and danger in the octagon.
De Ridder sees this fight as a significant challenge and an opportunity to prove himself. The middleweight division is heating up, with de Ridder vs. Whittaker kicking off a series of major bouts.
In just two weeks, Dricus du Plessis defends his title against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. Following that, Nassourdine Imavov faces Caio Borralho, adding more intrigue to the division.
De Ridder knows beating Whittaker is crucial, but style matters too. “If I can do it well, and do it spectacularly, I think I have something to say about the title,” he said. He aims to pressure Whittaker, leaving no room for his opponent’s strengths.
While focused on his own fight, de Ridder acknowledges the importance of Imavov vs. Borralho. He’s aware of the stakes and hopes for a standout performance to secure his title shot.
De Ridder’s UFC record boasts two submissions and a knockout, contrasting Borralho’s frequent decisions. Imavov, with a better finishing rate, adds another layer of competition.
In an ideal scenario, de Ridder finishes Whittaker early, while Imavov and Borralho go to a dull decision. This would simplify the UFC’s choice for the next title contender.
“I think for both contender fights, a win is not enough,” de Ridder explained. He plans to make a statement against Whittaker and hopes for an unremarkable fight in Paris.
De Ridder’s sights are set on Whittaker, but he’s also ready to step in if needed for du Plessis vs. Chimaev. Given Chimaev’s history of pullouts, de Ridder remains prepared.
“Let me do it right first,” de Ridder said, contemplating the possibility of Chimaev withdrawing. He’s ready to seize any opportunity that arises.
Assuming UFC 319 proceeds as planned, de Ridder still backs du Plessis to defend his title. His past training with both fighters informs his opinion, though his primary focus is his own title shot.
“My mind hasn’t really changed,” de Ridder stated, pondering the upcoming clash. He’s intrigued by the matchup but remains singularly focused on his chance for glory.