The next middleweight title contender could be decided on Saturday when Reinier de Ridder faces off with Robert Whittaker.
Netherlands’ very own is coming off an impressive win against former UFC contender series winner Bo Nickal and looks to make his name by beating ‘The Reaper’.
A win for either fighter gets them an opportunity against the winner of Dricus Du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev, the Russian has fortunately passed the hurdle of US customs for the fight.
Chimaev has finally secured his shot at the belt, and TJ Dillashaw believes cardio is the key to beating Du Plessis because of the 31-year-old’s lack of experience over the distance.
Reinier de Ridder claims Khamzat Chimaev’s choke of Robert Whittaker was not ‘real’
Since his win against Whittaker, the top contender is certainly a favourite for the UFC 319 clash but de Ridder has something to say about the victory.
Speaking to MMA Fighting, ‘RDR’ heaped praise on his opponent but also poured cold water on the impressiveness of Chimaev’s win.
He said: “(Speaking about Whittaker) He’s still there. That’s the most special thing, I think,”
“He won it all, lost it all, but he’s still grinding. He’s still putting it all out there. The last one was unfortunately against Khamzat, but I think the injury that he had going into it had something to do with it.
“Because that choke wasn’t a real choke. It wasn’t in the right position at all.”
During the build-up, he has focused on how he believes his 34-year-old foe still has more in the tank than people give him credit for.
This is why he will not underestimate the Australian.
“But right before that in the Ikram (Aliskerov) fight, he proved that he still belongs,” he said.
“He still has knockout power. He’s still very dangerous, and he can still hang with the best guys. So I think it’s a big challenge and I’m very, very happy that they gave it to me again.”
Reinier de Ridder says he is ready to step in if Khamzat Chimaev pulls out of UFC 319
However, even though he has his focus firmly set on his Abu Dhabi, he hasn’t been shy about stepping in on short notice for August 17th.
‘Borz’ has pulled out of fights before due to illness and de Ridder wouldn’t mind coming in to take his place in two weeks.
He said: “I can finish him spectacularly. I think I have something to say about the title. Or maybe Khamzat pulls out last minute, and that would be even better.”
“We’ll see. It’s not going to be a lot of work because it’s only two weeks later. But yeah, I think so (staying ready).”
Unlikely to happen, but if he beats Whittaker and faces Du Plessis within a two-week span, there could be an incredible MMA story brewing.