Fighters often switch promotions based on what suits them best. Previously, fans saw UFC’s former heavyweight champion leave due to contract issues and join PFL. Now, ONE Championship star Reinier de Ridder has made the move to the UFC. After debuting at UFC Vegas 100, ‘RDR’ expressed his satisfaction with being part of the UFC and leaving ONE Championship behind.
‘RDR’ had an impressive career in ONE Championship, where he became both the ONE Middleweight and Light Heavyweight World Champion, making him the third two-division champion in the organization. However, after leaving on poor terms this year and winning his debut at UFC Apex 100, he is now cautioning other fighters against joining ONE Championship, regardless of the offers they might receive. In the post-fight conference, he said,
“It’s been a bad couple of years, the stress I’ve been put through, the stress my family has been through just to get fights – it hasn’t been nice. This is something, it’s hard for me to talk bad because I had a couple good years at ONE. In the beginning, they treated me well, but over the last couple of years, it’s been really bad. Everything Else Is Sh*t”
Additionally, ‘RDR’ expressed appreciation for the hospitality he has received since joining the UFC. He described it as “amazing,” noting how warmly he has been welcomed by everyone, from the media to nutritionists and physical therapists. It’s been a fantastic experience for him so far.
Did Reinier De Ridder Impress In His UFC Debut?
‘RDR’ made his UFC debut this past Saturday at UFC Vegas 100, where he secured a victory over veteran Gerald Meerschaert. In Round 1, De Ridder controlled the action with deep kicks and jabs, although Meerschaert stunned him briefly. De Ridder continued to push for takedowns but struggled with execution. In Round 2, he finally succeeded in taking Meerschaert down and maintained top control.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MMA stories via Google! Follow Us
In Round 3, after Meerschaert’s failed takedown attempt, De Ridder locked in a head-and-arm choke from full mount, forcing Meerschaert to tap. Official result: Reinier de Ridder defeated Gerald Meerschaert via submission (head-and-arm choke) at 1:44 of Round 3. It was an impressive start for De Ridder in the UFC, and fans are eager to see him back in the octagon.
Also Read: VIDEO: Carlos Prates Stuns Fans As He Delivers Devastating Knockout Against Neil Magny UFC Vegas 100
