Reinier de Ridder amps up campaign to fight Khamzat Chimaev for UFC Middleweight title

Blesson has been a part of Khel Now since 2023, he covers Combat Sports & Gaming.

Published at :August 20, 2025 at 6:03 PM

Modified at :August 20, 2025 at 9:54 PM

(Courtesy : UFC)

RDR wants to battle the newly crowned Champion!

Reinier de Ridder is wasting no time in making his intentions clear. Fresh off a dominant win over former champion Robert Whittaker, the Dutch grappler has set his sights on the newly crowned UFC middleweight Champion, Khamzat Chimaev.

With Khamzat Chimaev newly crowned after dethroning Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319, de Ridder has called for a championship clash at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi on October 25.

Reinier de Ridder won’t be waiting on the sidelines; he’s set to headline UFC Fight Night in Vancouver on October 18 against Anthony Hernandez, just one week before UFC 321.

This is going to be FUN 👀Reinier de Ridder vs Anthony Hernandez is the #UFCVancouver main event!Tickets on sale Friday | Learn more: https://t.co/Sy7avEfmJe pic.twitter.com/Uoi2AStUWT
— UFC (@ufc) August 19, 2025

The timing might be perfect. Dana White has already confirmed Chimaev’s willingness for a quick turnaround, and with immigration issues resolved, the undefeated champion wants to stay active.

Reiner De Ridder calls out Khamzat Chimaev

Speaking to Damon Martin, de Ridder made his challenge crystal clear while pointing out that he has already faced the best American wrestler.

“I already faced the best American wrestler, I’m curious to see how I can do against the best Caucasus area wrestler. Send me the contract,” de Ridder said.

The former ONE two-division champion, who holds a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, believes his grappling acumen could be the key to cracking Chimaev’s relentless wrestling style.

At 6’4”, he would also hold a significant size advantage, something that could play into his strategy. De Ridder doubled down on his readiness in a conversation with Submission Radio:

“Yeah, I’ll 100% be ready. I’m still in shape. I didn’t stop training. I did eat a little bit too much, but I can adjust that very quickly.”

Reinier de Ridder is ready to face Khamzat Chimaev as early as UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi: "Send the contract."(🎥 @DamonMartin) pic.twitter.com/M6uVyoe8Zc
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) August 19, 2025

Khamzat Chimaev responds to the Callout

Chimaev, now 15-0 following his unanimous decision victory over du Plessis, seems open to the matchup. Just days after his title win, he posted a cryptic “Rdr [crossbones]” on X, signaling de Ridder could be next.

Rdr ☠️
— Khamzat Chimaev (@KChimaev) August 19, 2025

Some pundits believe de Ridder may represent Chimaev’s toughest test yet at 185 lbs. With Nassourdine Imavov already booked against Caio Borralho, de Ridder could “sneak in” and secure the shot.

“100%,” de Ridder said when asked if he would fight Chimaev in October. “Oct. 25 in Abu Dhabi? Sounds good.”

The UFC 321 card is already set to feature Tom Aspinall defending his heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane. Adding Chimaev vs de Ridder could make it one of the biggest shows of the year.

Is Reinier de Ridder next for Khamzat Chimaev?

Nothing is official yet, but both fighters have expressed interest in meeting at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi. de Ridder is set to face Anthony Hernandez and the winner might be next in line.

Why is de Ridder considered a tough matchup?

De Ridder is a decorated grappler with a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and a history of dominating top-level opponents, making him a rare stylistic challenge for Chimaev.

Who headlines UFC 321?

The current main event is Tom Aspinall vs Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight title, but Chimaev vs de Ridder could co-headline or even shift to the top of the card.

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Blesson

Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.