UFC signs former ONE two-division champion Reinier de Ridder

The UFC has made one of its most significant free agency signings in recent years, adding former ONE Championship two-division champion Reinier de Ridder to its roster.

MMA Junkie confirmed Tuesday with a person close to the situation that de Ridder (17-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC) has signed a multi-fight deal with the UFC. The person requested anonymity because it is not the first time the promotion has announced it. The news appeared first on UFC Roster Tracker at X.

De Ridder, 34, previously held the ONE Championship middleweight and light heavyweight titles. He fought nine times under the ONE banner, winning his first seven fights before losing both titles to Anatoly Malykhin in two consecutive fights.

The Dutchman last fought for the UAE Warriors in July, where he scored a first-round technical knockout to end his losing streak and secure a place in the UFC.

De Ridder’s Octagon debut will take place at 185 pounds, a person familiar with the situation told MMA Junkie. The location and opponent have not been disclosed at this time.