By FCF Staff

Reinier de Ridder likely has to record a couple more victories before he has an opportunity to battle Khamzat Chimaev in the Octagon. But, the former ONE champ likes his chances, if and when he faces the currently undefeated middleweight.

De Ridder (20-2) ensured he remains a top 15-ranked middleweight on Saturday, by stopping decorated wrestler Bo Nickal in round two. Although De Ridder has much more MMA experience than Nickal, leading up to the contest, the Dutch fighter was a considerable underdog.

It’s not clear yet who the UFC will look to have de Ridder fight next. But, while talking to Submission Radio since his win Saturday, de Ridder acknowledged that he sees a showdown with Chimaev unfolding. Not only that, the renowned grappler relayed he’s confident he could beat the undefeated fighter (quotes via MMA Junkie.com).

“That’s one that I see happening pretty quickly,” De Ridder told Submission Radio. “We’ve had some rounds together. I think I have a good shot in a fight (with Chimaev). What makes him special is the aggression that he comes out with.

“I think a lot of people get overwhelmed by how explosive he comes out and how hard he chases the back right away. That’s mostly what makes him so dangerous. We’ve seen a lot from him already, we’ve seen him go the distance a couple of times.”

Chimaev (14-0), meanwhile, is coming off a quick submission win over former champ, Robert Whittaker, in October. The Chechen fighter is expected to challenge middleweight champ, Dricus Du Plessis next. But the fight has yet to be announced.