Reinier de Ridder, a former two-division champion in ONE Championship, has issued an explosive warning to any fighter thinking of joining the promotion. In a candid statement after his victory at UFC Vegas 100, de Ridder didn’t hold back, delivering a brutal message to anyone considering signing with ONE. He slammed the organization, claiming it offers nothing—no opportunities, no real challenges—and signing with ONE is a career-destroying mistake.
De Ridder’s Explosive Departure from ONE Championship
De Ridder didn’t just leave ONE Championship—he escaped it like a sinking ship. After dominating in two weight classes, de Ridder’s time with ONE became a nightmare of frustration and missed opportunities. After just three fights in 2022, he was completely sidelined in 2023, with only a single grappling match against Tye Ruotolo. This forced inactivity crippled his career, and the stress it caused both him and his family was unbearable. De Ridder admitted that while his early years at ONE were positive, the last few years felt like a career-killing trap.
ONE Championship Ripped Apart: Glitter, But No Substance
De Ridder didn’t hold back his contempt for ONE Championship. The only thing he said he misses is the glitzy post-fight celebrations with falling glitter. Beyond that, he has nothing but scorn for the organization, calling it an absolute waste of time and a disaster for any fighter who dares to sign with them. He made it clear: ONE Championship is a dead-end, and he feels sorry for anyone who thinks otherwise.
A New Era in the UFC: De Ridder’s Fresh Start
Leaving ONE behind was the best decision of de Ridder’s career. Since joining the UFC, he has experienced a complete resurgence, with his dominant submission victory over Gerald Meerschaert at UFC Vegas 100 proving it. Despite a few minor mistakes in the fight, particularly with some failed submission attempts, de Ridder still managed to secure the win in dominant fashion. This victory marked the beginning of a new chapter for de Ridder, one where he’s ready to take on the toughest challenges the UFC has to offer. His confidence is through the roof, and he’s eager to make his mark on the middleweight division.
De Ridder Calls for Khamzat Chimaev Showdown
Now that he’s on a roll in the UFC, de Ridder is setting his sights on the biggest names in the middleweight division, with Khamzat Chimaev at the top of his list. Without hesitation, de Ridder called for a fight with Chimaev, confident that it would be a thrilling grappling battle. He’s ready to face whoever the UFC puts in front of him, and he’s not here to wait around for his shot. De Ridder’s message is clear: he’s ready to take on the best, and he’s fully prepared for whatever challenge comes his way.
