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Luke Rockhold and Joe Rogan agree on ‘wrestler’ who could threaten Khamzat Chimaev’s reign

Originally posted on HITC | By Donagh Corby | Last updated Aug 19, 2025 10:07 AM ET

Luke Rockhold and Joe Rogan seem to agree that there is one fighter who might have what it takes to finally hand Khamzat Chimaev his first loss.

Chimaev has looked unstoppable throughout his UFC career, but his performance against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 took things to another level.

‘Borz’ never really seemed to be at risk against the former champion, and the gulf in levels between them has made many fans wonder who could pose a genuine threat to the Chechen fighter.

Strong wrestling will be essential in any matchup against Chimaev, especially when it comes to defence. There is one newcomer to the organisation who both Rogan and former champion Rockhold believe could fit that description.

Luke Rockhold backs Reinier De Ridder to take down Khamzat Chimaev

Luke Rockhold is getting ready for his first Misfits Boxing match against Darren Till, set for August 30 in Manchester. But that did not stop him from catching Khamzat Chimaev’s title win.

Speaking to Bloody Elbow about who might be able to take down the new champion, he said:

“Well who can wrestle? De Ridder, yeah, he could be tough, he could be a problem for Khamzat.

“I don’t like to give him much credit because he’s not that good but I still think a guy like Paulo Costa would pose problems. His wrestling defence is not bad and look at what he did against Yoel Romero, even though Romero doesn’t stick to his wrestling but he was able to defend a lot of takedowns.

“But in reality, I like De Ridder. He’s probably the number one choice for this thing, for sure.”

Joe Rogan sees De Ridder as a serious challenge after UFC 319

Joe Rogan echoed this, stating post-fight that the former ONE FC Champion might be one of few who could challenge Chimaev. While De Ridder’s defensive wrestling stands out, there are still concerns about his striking and lack of experience at the highest level.

“Reinier de Ridder, in particular, given his ability to grapple on the ground, and also his ability to land shots standing,” Rogan said while discussing Chimaev’s list of potential opponents with Daniel Cormier and Jon Anik after the show.

“Particularly that knee he lands. That is nasty… Toughness, experience, he throws those combinations with that long lead-in knee. He’s interesting.”

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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