The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) is constantly evolving, and for fighters, making the leap to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is often regarded as the pinnacle of their careers. Former two-division ONE Championship titleholder Reinier de Ridder is poised to take this significant step, having officially signed with the UFC. Set to debut on November 9 against Gerald Meerschaert at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, this transition marks the start of a new journey for de Ridder, who has already made a name for himself in the competitive landscape of MMA.
De Ridder’s rise in ONE Championship was nothing short of spectacular. With a record of 17 wins to just 2 losses, he achieved the remarkable feat of holding both the light heavyweight and middleweight titles simultaneously. His tenure in the Asian promotion included notable victories, most famously submitting the revered Aung La Nsang, which solidified his status as a formidable competitor. However, the trajectory of his career took a downturn during his last outings, where he faced reality in the form of back-to-back defeats against Anatoly Malykhin, the reigning three-division champion.
Following these challenges, de Ridder did not remain idle. He showcased his resilience by competing at UAE Warriors, where he secured a first-round stoppage against Magomedmurad Khasaev. This victory not only reaffirmed his skills but also reignited interest in his capabilities, leading to the speculation on his future within the sport.
The announcement of de Ridder’s signing was met with anticipation, especially after circulating rumors hinted at this pivotal move. His confirmation through social media underscored the excitement surrounding his UFC debut: “The rumors are true!” he proclaimed, exemplifying his eagerness to take on new challenges. Fighting in the UFC’s highly competitive middleweight division, de Ridder will face Gerald Meerschaert. This matchup is consequential; Meerschaert holds a wealth of experience and records for finishes in UFC middleweight history. With 12 of his 18 career wins coming by way of knockout or submission, he will undoubtedly present a stern test for the debuting de Ridder.
As de Ridder prepares for his UFC debut, the MMA community is keenly observing how this former champion will adapt to a new environment filled with intense competition. His abilities have been proven inside the Octagon, yet the UFC’s rigorous demands will require him to elevate his game further. The fight against Meerschaert will be indicative of whether de Ridder can reclaim his status as a top contender within the sport.
Describing him as “The Dutch Knight,” supporters are eager to see how de Ridder’s skill set translates in the ultimate proving ground for fighters. For a talented athlete with a storied past, this transition is not just about proving himself anew but about reigniting a championship-level career and striving for greatness in one of the most prestigious leagues in combat sports. The world will be watching as Reinier de Ridder embarks on this promising new chapter.
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