UFC’s Renier de Ridder Eyes Adesanya Clash Amid Champion’s Comeback Plans

UFC middleweight contender Renier de Ridder has set his sights on a showdown with former two-time champion, Israel Adesanya, expressing both respect and readiness for the high-profile bout.

In an interview with Inside Fighting, de Ridder praised the Nigerian-born New Zealand star, describing him as one of the sport’s most accomplished fighters.
“I greatly admire him because he has done so much in the sport. He still holds the best record. He beat Pereira in their last meeting and fights with such elegance,” de Ridder said. “That’s more meaningful to me than fighting someone who just wants to throw punches because he hates me.”

De Ridder’s remarks come as Adesanya looks to reboot his career following a tough stretch.

‘The Last Stylebender’ is currently riding a three-fight losing streak, beginning with his shocking title loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 293.

Adesanya has made it clear that a rematch with Strickland is his top priority for a planned return to the octagon later this year.

“Most likely mid-September or October,” he said during an appearance on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani.

“Sean. No question. He lost his last fight. I lost mine. So, want a rematch?”

However, Adesanya has also voiced frustration over Strickland’s silence regarding the proposed rematch, questioning why the American fighter has yet to respond publicly to the challenge.

This potential return follows a career milestone for Adesanya, who was recently inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. His legendary 2019 war against Kelvin Gastelum at UFC 236 was enshrined in the promotion’s Fight Wing during a ceremony at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

While Adesanya focuses on redemption, de Ridder is positioning himself as a worthy next opponent—one who’s eager to test his skills against a modern UFC icon.