UFC middleweight Reinier de Ridder (20-2) delivered a commanding performance against rising prospect Bo Nickal (7-1) at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines on May 3. After staggering Nickal with a powerful left strike, de Ridder followed up with a well-placed knee to the abdomen that sent Nickal collapsing against the cage.
The referee quickly stepped in, declaring a TKO victory for de Ridder in the second round. The emphatic finish marked a high point in the Dutch fighter’s growing UFC career.
Crowd Silenced as de Ridder Celebrates, Dominates, and Exposes Rising Star Nickal
Following his victory, de Ridder offered a mix of showmanship and sentiment. He raised his arms, blew kisses toward unhappy fans, and ended with a heart-shaped hand gesture as part of his celebration.
His win not only silenced the crowd that had booed him during his walkout but also underscored his ability to perform under pressure in hostile territory. This victory was his third consecutive win in the UFC over the past six months, a streak that is gaining him notable momentum.
Reinier de Ridder Stuns Bo Nickal with Brutal TKO, Calls Out Strickland for Next UFC TestBo Nickal, a decorated four-time NCAA wrestling All-American from Penn State, entered the bout undefeated in MMA. However, de Ridder’s persistent body attacks gradually broke Nickal down. De Ridder later explained that he could sense Nickal weakening with each shot to the body.
He capitalized on these moments of vulnerability, pressing the attack and finishing the fight when the opportunity presented itself. It was a strategic and disciplined performance that exposed gaps in Nickal’s striking defense.
De Ridder Eyes Strickland Next, Hungry for Top Contenders and UFC Title Shot
In his post-fight media appearance, a bruised but smiling de Ridder reflected on the significance of his win and laid out his ambitions. Calling the fight “not too bad,” he set his sights on a higher-caliber opponent—specifically, former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland, currently ranked No. 2 in the division. De Ridder praised Strickland’s unique personality and technical skill, particularly his jab, and expressed eagerness for the challenge, describing it as an exciting stylistic matchup.
Reinier de Ridder’s hunger for competition is clear. He hinted that he would gladly fight again the following week if it meant climbing the UFC middleweight rankings more quickly. While he enjoys the aftermath of his victory, de Ridder remains laser-focused on future opportunities. His recent win over Nickal is more than a highlight—it’s a stepping stone toward top-tier competition and, potentially, a title shot in one of UFC’s most competitive divisions.
