His jiu-jitsu pedigree, with 70% of his 21-2 record by submission, backs his confidence. De Ridder’s recent UFC wins, including a split decision over Robert Whittaker in July 2025, make him a top contender.

There has been a lot of talk about how Khamzat Chimaev won the UFC middleweight title. Following his dominant performance at UFC 319 in Chicago this past Saturday, Chimaev is now the 185-pound champion.

Chimaev’s strategy against Du Plessis has been criticized by some, but not many have gone as far the champ’s longtime enemy, Paulo Costa, with their reactions. During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, the Brazilian boldly claimed that Chimaev could “kill” MMA if he repeats the manner in which he won on August 16.

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has made it crystal clear that he's interested in fighting Reinier de Ridder in his next fight.

Max Holloway expressed surprise at Khamzat Chimaev's dominant performance at UFC 319. Chimaev defeated Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title. H

Reinier de Ridder was cageside at UFC 319, watching Khamzat Chimaev dominate Dricus Du Plessis to claim the middleweight crown. And now that “Borz” has made it clear he wants a quick turnaround in Abu Dhabi this October, de Ridder is more than willing to step in.

Robert Whittaker recently fired back at critics of the UFC 319 main event between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus du Plessis.

In the main event of UFC 319 this Saturday, Chimaev will challenge Dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title. ‘Borz’ earned the opportunity by tearing through Robert Whittaker last year, and he will now look to add the South African champion to his long list of victims.