40 Facts About Reinier De Ridder

Early Life and Background

Reinier De Ridder is a name that resonates with fans of mixed martial arts. His journey from a young enthusiast to a professional fighter is filled with interesting tidbits.

1. Born on September 7, 1990, in Breda, Netherlands, De Ridder grew up in a sports-loving family.
2. He started training in judo at the age of 5, which laid the foundation for his grappling skills.
3. By the age of 12, he had already earned a black belt in judo.
4. De Ridder also trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and holds a black belt in this discipline as well.
5. He studied physiotherapy at Avans University of Applied Sciences, balancing academics with his passion for martial arts.

Career Beginnings

De Ridder's professional career began in the Netherlands, where he quickly made a name for himself.

6. He made his professional MMA debut on March 15, 2013, winning by submission in the first round.
7. His early fights were in regional promotions like 360 MMA and SHC.
8. De Ridder won his first five fights, all by submission, showcasing his grappling prowess.
9. He captured the SHC Middleweight Championship in 2017.
10. His impressive record caught the attention of larger promotions, leading to his signing with ONE Championship.

Rise in ONE Championship

Joining ONE Championship marked a significant step in De Ridder's career, where he faced tougher competition.

11. He made his ONE Championship debut on January 25, 2019, defeating Fan Rong by submission.
12. De Ridder quickly climbed the ranks, winning his next two fights by submission and TKO.
13. On October 30, 2020, he challenged Aung La Nsang for the ONE Middleweight World Championship.
14. De Ridder won the fight via submission in the first round, becoming the new champion.
15. He then moved up a weight class to challenge Aung La Nsang for the ONE Light Heavyweight World Championship on April 28, 2021.
16. De Ridder won the light heavyweight title by unanimous decision, making him a two-division champion.

Fighting Style and Techniques

De Ridder's fighting style is a blend of various martial arts, making him a versatile and dangerous opponent.

17. His primary strength lies in his grappling, particularly his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills.
18. He is known for his aggressive takedowns and ground control.
19. De Ridder has a high submission rate, with the majority of his wins coming via submission.
20. He often uses the rear-naked choke, a technique he has mastered over the years.
21. Despite his grappling focus, he has also shown proficiency in striking, making him a well-rounded fighter.

Personal Life

Outside the cage, De Ridder leads a life that balances his professional commitments with personal interests.

22. He is married and has two children, often sharing family moments on social media.
23. De Ridder is an advocate for a healthy lifestyle, promoting fitness and nutrition.
24. He enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
25. Despite his busy schedule, he finds time to coach young fighters, sharing his knowledge and experience.
26. De Ridder is also a fan of football and supports his local team, NAC Breda.

Achievements and Records

De Ridder's career is decorated with numerous achievements and records that highlight his skill and dedication.

27. He holds an undefeated professional record, a rare feat in MMA.
28. De Ridder is the first fighter in ONE Championship history to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously.
29. He has won multiple Performance of the Night bonuses in ONE Championship.
30. De Ridder was named the 2020 Fighter of the Year by several MMA publications.
31. He has a 100% finish rate in his victories, showcasing his ability to end fights decisively.

Training and Preparation

Preparation is key to De Ridder's success, and his training regimen reflects his commitment to excellence.

32. He trains at Combat Brothers, a renowned gym in Breda.
33. His training includes a mix of grappling, striking, and conditioning.
34. De Ridder often trains with other high-level fighters, pushing himself to improve constantly.
35. He incorporates modern sports science into his training, using data and analytics to optimize performance.
36. Recovery is also a crucial part of his regimen, with techniques like cryotherapy and massage therapy.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, De Ridder has set his sights on even greater achievements in his career.

37. He aims to defend his titles and maintain his undefeated record.
38. De Ridder has expressed interest in competing in other weight classes, potentially becoming a three-division champion.
39. He also plans to expand his coaching efforts, helping to develop the next generation of fighters.
40. De Ridder hopes to leave a lasting legacy in MMA, inspiring others with his journey and achievements.

Reinier De Ridder: A Remarkable Journey

Reinier De Ridder's story is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in the Netherlands to becoming a dominant force in mixed martial arts, his dedication and skill have set him apart. He's not just a fighter; he's a symbol of perseverance and excellence. His achievements in ONE Championship, including multiple titles, showcase his talent and hard work. Beyond the ring, De Ridder's commitment to his craft and continuous improvement is evident. His journey reminds us that with passion and determination, anything is possible. Whether you're a fan of MMA or just love a good success story, De Ridder's journey offers valuable lessons. Keep an eye on this incredible athlete as he continues to make waves in the world of combat sports.