Reinier De Ridder Playfully Mocks Nassourdine Imavov’s UFC Paris Performance as Title Contender battle heats Up

RDR is set to fight Anthony ‘Fluffy’ Hernandez in a middleweight title eliminator at UFC Vancouver in October, with both contenders looking to face Chimaev next. The bout against Hernandez will undoubtedly prove to be the biggest test for the Dutchman, as ‘Fluffy’ is on an eight-fight win streak himself.

Known for his grappling dominance and two-division success in ONE FC, De Ridder now carries that confidence into the UFC. The Dutchman currently boasts a 21-2 professional record, with a perfect start in the UFC. His recent split decision victory over Robert Whittaker at UFC Abu Dhabi in July showcased his ability to compete with the division’s elite.

Before that, he earned wins over notable fighters such as Kevin Holland and Bo Nickal. Imavov’s Paris performance may have given him another win, but it lacked the explosive statement he needed. In contrast, de Ridder’s playful response highlighted his own hunger and personality.

With Hernandez awaiting him in October, de Ridder has a chance to show the urgency fans demand. The middleweight division remains wide open, and contenders like him are ready to step in.

Reinier De Ridder terms Nassourdine Imavov better than Khamzat Chimaev

Reinier de Ridder recently gave his thoughts on the current state of the UFC’s middleweight division, where the spotlight has largely been on Khamzat Chimaev. In his comments, De Ridder explained that there are fighters in the division who may actually pose greater threats than the undefeated Chechen. However, he singled out Imavov out of the entire 185-pound division.

By drawing a comparison between Imavov and Chimaev, De Ridder also fueled ongoing debates among fans and analysts about who truly deserves to be seen as the biggest threat at middleweight. Chimaev’s physical dominance and unbeaten record have given him superstar status. Still, the Dutchman’s remarks suggested that raw power alone may not be enough to succeed against the division’s most technical fighters.

French guy [Imavov] is very complete. He moves very well, very relaxed, and smart when he fights. I think that might be a harder fight. But Khamzat is, of course, a great fighter.

Reinier De Ridder via Home Of Fight

RDR’s acknowledgment of Imavov as “very complete” not only sheds light on how he views the evolving middleweight picture but also positions him as a fighter deeply invested in the division’s future. With contenders like Chimaev, Imavov, and Hernandez all vying for supremacy, de Ridder’s perspective reinforced that the road to the top at 185 pounds is as competitive and unpredictable as it has ever been.