What’s Next for Reinier de Ridder?
Given de Ridder’s grappling prowess and his growing momentum in the UFC, a matchup against a top-10 middleweight seems like the logical next step. Several intriguing options could test his skill set and propel him further into title contention.
Reinier de Ridder vs. Paulo Costa: A Clash of Styles
A bout against Paulo Costa (#11 middleweight), the hard-hitting Brazilian powerhouse, would offer an exciting stylistic clash. Costa’s aggressive striking and durability could challenge de Ridder’s ability to implement his grappling game plan. For Costa, this fight would be an opportunity to rebound from recent setbacks and prove he remains a force in the division.
De Ridder’s path to victory would likely involve avoiding Costa’s power shots and taking the fight to the ground, where his submission skills could shine. On the other hand, Costa would look to keep the fight standing and test de Ridder’s striking defense.
With both fighters eager to climb the ranks, a matchup between de Ridder and Costa could deliver fireworks and clarify the middleweight title picture. Will de Ridder’s grappling be too much for Costa, or can the Brazilian’s striking prevail?
Reinier de Ridder: Last 5 Fights
1. Win vs. Kevin Holland – Submission (rear-naked choke) at UFC 311 (Jan 18, 2025)
* Grappling dominance led to a quick submission win in Round 1.
2. Win vs. Gerald Meerschaert – Submission (arm-triangle choke) at UFC Fight Night (Nov 9, 2024)
* A methodical performance showcasing his submission skills.
3. Win vs. Magomedmurad Khasaev – TKO (punches) at UAE Warriors 51 (Jul 27, 2024)
* Displayed improved striking en route to a stoppage win.
4. Loss vs. Anatoly Malykhin – TKO (retirement) at ONE 166 (Mar 1, 2024)
* Lost his ONE Middleweight Championship in a grueling fight.
5. Loss vs. Anatoly Malykhin – KO (punches) at ONE on Prime Video 5 (Dec 3, 2022)
* Lost the ONE Light Heavyweight Championship.
Paulo Costa: Last 5 Fights
1. Loss vs. Sean Strickland – Decision (split) at UFC 302 (Jun 1, 2024)
* A closely contested fight against a top contender.
2. Loss vs. Robert Whittaker – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 298 (Feb 17, 2024)
* Outpointed by the former champion in a technical battle.
3. Win vs. Luke Rockhold – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 278 (Aug 20, 2022)
* A wild brawl that earned Fight of the Night honors.
4. Loss vs. Marvin Vettori – Decision (unanimous) at UFC Fight Night (Oct 23, 2021)
* Struggled in a high-paced, light heavyweight bout.
5. Loss vs. Israel Adesanya – TKO (punches and elbows) at UFC 253 (Sep 27, 2020)
* Failed in his bid for the UFC Middleweight Championship.
