The Wrestling X-Factor: Why Reinier De Ridder Could Be Khamzat Chimaev’s Kryptonite
Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant victory over Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 wasn’t just a title win; it was a statement. But even as Chimaev ascends to the middleweight throne, a critical question lingers: who *can* beat him? The consensus, surprisingly, points to a fighter from outside the UFC – a former ONE Championship kingpin whose grappling prowess might be the key to unlocking Chimaev’s invincibility. Luke Rockhold and Joe Rogan both agree: Reinier De Ridder could be the man to end the hype.
The Chimaev Equation: Dominance Built on Wrestling
Chimaev’s success isn’t a mystery. It’s a relentless, suffocating wrestling game combined with brutal ground and pound. Du Plessis, a formidable striker with solid takedown defense, was repeatedly taken down and controlled, ultimately succumbing to Chimaev’s pressure. This raises a crucial point: beating Chimaev isn’t about out-striking him; it’s about surviving the wrestling onslaught and, ideally, turning the tables. As Rockhold, preparing for his own boxing match, succinctly put it, “Who can wrestle? De Ridder, yeah, he could be tough, he could be a problem for Khamzat.”
But wrestling alone isn’t enough. Many fighters *can* wrestle. De Ridder’s skillset is different. It’s about elite grappling, particularly his submission game, and a demonstrated ability to control opponents on the ground. This is where the potential for a genuine threat emerges.
Why Reinier De Ridder Stands Out
Joe Rogan highlighted De Ridder’s unique blend of skills on the UFC 319 post-fight broadcast. “Reinier de Ridder, in particular, given his ability to grapple on the ground, and also his ability to land shots standing…That knee he lands. That is nasty.” De Ridder isn’t just a grappler; he’s a dangerous finisher with a diverse striking arsenal. His signature spinning back kick and powerful knees make him a threat in all phases of the fight.
Reinier De Ridder’s success in ONE Championship, where he simultaneously held titles in both the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions, demonstrates his adaptability and championship pedigree. He’s faced, and defeated, a wide range of opponents, showcasing his ability to adjust his game plan and exploit weaknesses.
“Did you know?” De Ridder holds a black belt in Kempo Karate, in addition to his extensive grappling background, giving him a unique striking foundation.
The Challenges of Bringing De Ridder to the UFC
The biggest hurdle isn’t De Ridder’s skill set; it’s the logistical challenge of bringing him to the UFC. He’s currently under contract with ONE Championship. Negotiations between the two promotions would be complex, requiring a willingness from both sides to make concessions. However, the potential for a massive crossover fight – a true clash of champions – could be a powerful incentive.
Another factor is De Ridder’s experience at the highest level of MMA. While dominant in ONE, the UFC represents a different level of competition. The speed, athleticism, and overall depth of talent in the UFC are arguably greater. However, De Ridder’s proven ability to adapt and overcome challenges suggests he wouldn’t be intimidated.
Beyond De Ridder: Other Potential Matchups
While De Ridder is the name most frequently mentioned, other fighters could pose problems for Chimaev. Luke Rockhold also pointed to Paulo Costa, noting his surprisingly effective takedown defense against Yoel Romero. “His wrestling defence is not bad…he was able to defend a lot of takedowns.” However, Costa’s susceptibility to leg kicks and overall durability remain concerns.
“Expert Insight:” Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier has repeatedly emphasized the importance of grappling defense against Chimaev. “You have to be able to stuff those takedowns. If you can’t, it’s going to be a long night.”
Ultimately, the key to beating Chimaev lies in neutralizing his wrestling and exploiting any weaknesses in his striking. De Ridder, with his elite grappling skills and diverse attack, appears to be the most well-equipped fighter to do just that.
The Future of Middleweight: A Shifting Landscape
Chimaev’s arrival has undeniably shaken up the middleweight division. The traditional power brokers – Adesanya, Whittaker, Costa – now face a new, dominant force. This shift is forcing fighters to re-evaluate their strategies and potentially focus more on wrestling defense. We may see a surge in grappling-focused training camps as fighters prepare to face the Chimaev challenge.
“Key Takeaway:” The era of relying solely on striking to win at middleweight may be over. Wrestling and grappling are now paramount, and fighters who prioritize these skills will have a significant advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Reinier De Ridder likely?
A: It’s currently uncertain. It depends on negotiations between the UFC and ONE Championship, and both fighters’ willingness to participate.
Q: What makes Reinier De Ridder a difficult matchup for Khamzat Chimaev?
A: De Ridder’s elite grappling skills, particularly his submission game, and his ability to control opponents on the ground pose a significant threat to Chimaev’s wrestling-heavy style.
Q: Could Paulo Costa pose a challenge to Khamzat Chimaev?
A: Costa has shown good takedown defense, but his vulnerability to leg kicks and questions about his durability remain concerns.
Q: What is the biggest weakness in Khamzat Chimaev’s game?
A: While incredibly well-rounded, Chimaev’s striking defense hasn’t been extensively tested against elite strikers, and his grappling can be countered by equally skilled grapplers.
What are your predictions for the future of the middleweight division? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Explore more insights on UFC fight predictions in our guide.
Learn more about Reinier De Ridder’s career on the ONE Championship website.
Read about the evolution of grappling in MMA and its impact on the sport.
