De Ridder points out 'nightmare' for Poatan and provokes Brazilian: 'he only faced strikers'

Alex Poatán is the current light heavyweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/homeoffight

Cast to star in the UFC Vancouver this Saturday (18) and acting in the middleweight division (up to 83,9 kg), Ridder's Reinier does not hesitate to take the opportunity to provoke athletes from another category. In the midst of the great moment lived by Alex Poatán in the organization, the Brazilian was unable to escape the Dutchman's ironic manner.

During a conversation in which he spoke about Poatan's desire to face Jon Jones at UFC Casa Branca, Ridder downplayed the trajectory of the current light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg) and indicated that, so far, the Brazilian has not faced anyone who could pose problems in grappling like 'Bones' could in a potential confrontation.

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“100% (Jon Jones is the worst match for Poatan). We haven't seen what Alex can do yet, because he basically faces strikers, even Ankalaev is more of a striker,” de Ridder said in an interview with MMA fighting.

Ridder's Reinier provoked Alex Poatán. Photo: Reproduction x/UFC News

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Determined to pursue major fights in his UFC career, Poatan is targeting a fight against Jones in June 2026. In the Brazilian's view, it's a fight no one will lose, given the stature of both fighters on the global MMA scene. Despite the proposal, Dana White has not yet officially stated whether he plans to organize a fight.

Currently ranked fourth in the middleweight division, de Ridder faces Brendan allen this Saturday (18), seeking to achieve a fifth consecutive victory in the organization. So far, the Dutchman has three triumphs by the fast track in the octagon.