UFC 326 – Caio Borralho vs Reinier De Ridder: Preview & Betting Tips

The middleweight showdown between Caio Borralho and Reinier de Ridder is one of the most intriguing bouts at UFC 326.

Borralho (17-2, 1 NC) has quietly built a reputation as one of the smartest and most technically disciplined fighters at 185 pounds. Fighting out of the famed Fighting Nerds camp in Brazil, Borralho blends grappling expertise with increasingly polished striking. 

De Ridder (21-3) presents a different type of grappling threat. A former two-division champion in another major promotion, the Dutchman is widely recognised for his elite submission game.

Tale of the Tape 

Caio Borralho – Odds 1.33 

Record: 17-2, 1 NC

Age: 33

Height: 6ft1

Reach: 75”

Weight: Middleweight 

Stance: Southpaw 

Reinier de Ridder – Odds 3.25 

Record: 21-3 

Age: 35

Height: 6ft3

Reach: 78”

Weight: Middleweight 

Stance: Southpaw 

Caio Borralho vs Reinier De Ridder: Analysis 

Borralho’s approach tends to be measured and tactical. He doesn’t rush into reckless exchanges but instead looks to control tempo, pressure opponents into uncomfortable positions, and capitalise on mistakes.

Borralho’s grappling foundation is his greatest strength. His positional awareness on the mat is exceptional, and he excels at maintaining control once he gets top position. He’s not always the most explosive finisher, but he’s incredibly effective at wearing opponents down through pressure, control, and methodical ground work. Over time, that style can drain both the energy and confidence of whoever stands across from him.

On the feet, Borralho has made steady improvements. His jab and kicking game have become useful tools for setting up takedowns or forcing reactions. While he’s not known for knockout power, he uses striking intelligently to close distance and create grappling opportunities.

De Ridder is tall for the division and uses his length extremely well, particularly in grappling exchanges. His ability to secure chokes from unconventional positions makes him dangerous at all times on the ground.

What separates de Ridder from many grapplers is his relentless submission hunting. While some fighters prioritise control, de Ridder constantly looks to advance positions and attack the neck or arms. His front chokes, particularly guillotines and D’Arce-style variations, are legitimate fight-ending weapons. That aggressiveness means opponents cannot relax for even a moment in scrambles.

Borralho vs De Ridder: Prediction & Betting Tips 

On the feet, Borralho likely holds the advantage in structure and technical discipline. His striking is more developed, and he’s comfortable maintaining distance and scoring points. De Ridder’s striking is functional but primarily serves as a bridge to grappling.

He will likely look to close distance quickly and create clinch opportunities where he can initiate takedowns or trips.The clinch could become a major battleground. Both fighters are skilled at using body locks and leverage to initiate grappling sequences. Small positional battles, underhooks, head position, balance, could determine who dictates where the fight takes place.

Borralho has shown the ability to maintain a steady pace across multiple rounds, methodically implementing his game plan. De Ridder’s submission-heavy approach can sometimes lead to bursts of intense grappling activity. If those attempts fail, energy management becomes important.

This is a matchup defined by technique and intelligence. If Borralho can keep the fight structured and control position, he may gradually wear down the Dutch submission specialist. If de Ridder finds openings during scrambles and locks in one of his trademark chokes, the fight could end suddenly.

I’m taking Reinier de Ridder to win by submission at odds of 11.00 .