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Reinier de Ridder Eyes Light Heavyweight Future After Tough UFC Run

By Team Reign·Mar 12, 2026 • 7:00 AM

Reinier de Ridder is shifting gears to the light heavyweight division following a string of defeats in the UFC middleweight ranks, eyeing new opportunities and challenges ahead.

After facing tough challenges in the UFC middleweight division, Reinier de Ridder is signaling a bold transition to light heavyweight. Known for his grappling prowess and tenacity, de Ridder's journey took a hit recently as he dealt with back-to-back losses. Rather than bowing out, he sees this as an opportunity to recalibrate and ascend within a new weight class.

The former ONE Championship champion has expressed his intent to compete at 205 pounds, a division that presents fresh challenges and matchups. De Ridder's grappling skills and submission game could create intriguing clashes against power punchers and seasoned veterans in the light heavyweight landscape.

As he embarks on this new chapter, fight fans are buzzing with anticipation about how de Ridder will adapt his strategic fighting style in a heavier class. With his restart comes not only the challenge of adjusting to new opponents but also the potential to showcase his evolving skill set on one of the biggest stages in MMA.

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