Reinier de Ridder sees 'multiple ways to get to Rome,' including Khamzat Chimaev
Reinier de Ridder sees options. They’re all tough, but they all interest him.
Fresh off his UFC 311 win over Kevin Holland last Saturday, de Ridder (19-2 MMA, 2-0 UFC) feels good and healthy. Mentally, he’s ready for the next challenge, which will, regardless of opponent, be his third time competing in the UFC cage.
“I think I can hang with those guys, and that’s what I’m hoping for rather sooner than later,” de Ridder told MMA Junkie Radio. There’s always a lot of stuff to work on, of course. I’m going to keep growing, keep evolving. But that’s what I’m here for. I want to be part of the top five. I want to see if I can get my hands on the belt.”
There isn’t just one path to the title as de Ridder sees it. Looking at the lay of the land in front of him in the rankings, four names come to mind.
“There are multiple ways to get to Rome. I think there are a lot of options to get there. All of them would be amazing. All of the ones you mentioned would be amazing. Khamzat (Chimaev) would be a great fight. I don’t think he has anything booked, so why not? But also (Robert) Whittaker would great. (Israel) Adesanya-(Nassourdine) Imavov winner. I’m ready for whatever. If I can land a big fight like that, finish it like I did this one, then I think there’s no denying me.”
“… It doesn’t really matter. Like a Khamzat fight would be great to see the best grapplers match up. A striker matchup with Adesanya would be amazing, as well. He’s a guy I’ve looked up to for a very long time. I’m ready to show it up.”
De Ridder, 34, held both the ONE light heavyweight and heavyweight titles prior to his UFC signing in 2024. He’s finished both of his UFC appearances by submission.