Reinier de Ridder

Reinier de Ridder, known as "The Dutch Knight," is a Dutch mixed martial artist who competes in the middleweight division of the UFC.

Born and raised in the Netherlands, de Ridder grew up in Tilburg before settling in Breda, where he studied physical therapy. He began training in judo as a child, but it was his discovery of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a young adult that reshaped his athletic path, setting him on a course from grappling mats to the biggest stage in mixed martial arts.

De Ridder's credentials on the ground are extensive. He holds a black belt in judo earned in his teens and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a discipline he pursued relentlessly for years, testing himself against seasoned competitors far more experienced than him. His grappling resume includes a silver medal at the European Jiu-Jitsu Championship and matches against some of the sport's most respected submission specialists.

Inside the cage, de Ridder built his reputation as a methodical, grappling-first fighter. His size, control on the mat, and submission instincts allow him to dictate pace and position against opponents of any style, while his striking has continued to round into a complementary weapon rather than a mere afterthought.

De Ridder's career highlights are headlined by his historic run in

Stats last updated: August 23, 2026