Reinier de Ridder, a proud mixed martial artist renowned for his grappling expertise, intends to bring his ground game to the forefront in his upcoming bout.
With an impressive record of 19 wins, including 13 submissions, the former two-division ONE Championship titleholder has already secured two submission victories in the UFC. His next challenge at UFC Des Moines on May 3 is against Bo Nickal, a highly touted prospect and three-time national wrestling champion.
While Nickal`s wrestling prowess is well-established, his recent performance against Paul Craig, which primarily remained a stand-up fight, drew criticism for his apparent reluctance to engage in grappling.
De Ridder commented on Nickal`s latest win, stating, “It wasn`t the most exciting fight to watch. He did demonstrate some decent striking and footwork, along with a powerful left hand. However, he didn`t truly make a statement. Perhaps it was simply an off night for him.”
Despite acknowledging his willingness to strike with Nickal, de Ridder understands that grappling is the anticipated core of this matchup.
This fight sets the stage for a clash between a formidable submission specialist and a world-class wrestler. Observing Nickal`s avoidance of ground engagement with Craig, de Ridder anticipates needing to initiate the grappling exchanges against the Penn State alumnus.
“I believe I’ll have to force him to wrestle,” de Ridder stated. “Based on the Paul Craig fight, it seems he’s wary of jiu-jitsu on the ground, afraid of being caught in a submission. Therefore, I think it’s up to me to make it a grappling contest.”
“My strategy is to close the distance, apply pressure, land a few strikes, which I believe will prompt him to shoot for takedowns. I foresee the fight being largely determined in the clinch, where significant exchanges will occur. I`m focusing on utilizing knees and elbows, throws, trips, and securing back control. That’s the plan.”
Often, when elite grapplers face off in the UFC, fights devolve into striking battles as both fighters are hesitant to engage on the ground.
While de Ridder is prepared to trade strikes, he recognizes that fans and the UFC are eager to witness a grappling showcase in this co-main event in May.
“Who wants to see us strike?” de Ridder questioned with amusement. “We are both capable strikers, but let`s be honest, everyone wants to see grappling action. Nobody wants a repeat of a Demian Maia and Ben Askren striking-only first round.”
De Ridder emphasizes his readiness for any scenario but underlines his intention to drive the grappling engagement if Nickal attempts to avoid it.
Despite being known as a submission expert, de Ridder highlights his judo background and his willingness to take Nickal down and potentially throw him.
“I think I am capable of taking him down. I believe I have a good chance at that,” de Ridder added. “I’ve consistently trained with high-level wrestlers, particularly at Kill Cliff FC in Florida. I’ve observed that my upper body techniques are typically most effective.”
“In many fights, the grappling doesn`t fully materialize. For instance, in the Kevin Holland fight, I could have taken him down with a single leg. However, judo is my foundation, and I would welcome the opportunity to throw him around a bit.”
From a rankings perspective, de Ridder, currently ranked in the middleweight top 15, takes on more risk against Nickal, who is unranked but highly regarded.
Although de Ridder initially sought a top-five opponent like Khamzat Chimaev, he acknowledges the significant name recognition Nickal brings.
“I was aiming for a top-five opponent, but Bo Nickal is undoubtedly a top-five name, isn’t he?” de Ridder remarked. “He is very well-known, and defeating him would be a significant step forward in the rankings.”
“I am pleased with this matchup. Stylistically, it promises to be exciting. It will be interesting to determine who possesses superior grappling skills.”
If de Ridder can successfully halt the Nickal hype on May 3, he anticipates a substantial advancement in the middleweight division.
With Dricus de Plessis expected to defend his title against Chimaev, and Nassourdine Imavov also in contention, the middleweight landscape is dynamic.
Considering the division`s current state, de Ridder recognizes the potential for a significant ranking boost if he defeats Nickal decisively at UFC Des Moines.
“Many of the top contenders have already faced each other,” de Ridder noted. “Who knows? If I can secure a quick submission victory, I believe I will have a strong case for a higher-profile fight next.”
