De Ridder’s clearest path to victory is through grappling. He remains one of the best submission specialists in the UFC and will likely look to drag Dolidze into extended clinch and ground exchanges.
Dolidze possesses advantages in pure striking power and explosiveness. If he can consistently defend takedowns and keep the fight standing, he has the tools to land the more damaging shots.
Reinier de Ridder
Last 3 Bouts
Lose. Caio Borralho – Unanimous Decision
Lose. Brendan Allen – TKO
Win. Robert Whittaker – Split Decision
Strengths
Elite submission skills
Excellent clinch control
Strong top pressure
High-level grappling IQ
Proven championship experience
Dangerous in scrambles and transitions
Weaknesses
Striking defense can be vulnerable
Has suffered multiple TKO losses in recent years
Can struggle against opponents who maintain distance
Entering the fight on a two-fight losing streak
Limited knockout power compared to elite light heavyweights
Keys to Victory
Force clinch exchanges early
Use his size and grappling to control positioning
Make Dolidze work defensively against the cage
Secure takedowns and establish top control
Avoid prolonged striking exchanges in open space
Roman Dolidze
Last 3 Bouts
Lose. Christian Leroy Duncan – Unanimous Decision
Lose. Anthony Hernandez – Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)
Win. Marvin Vettori – Unanimous Decision
Strengths
Heavy-handed striker
Strong physical strength
Dangerous ground game
Good finishing ability
Extensive UFC experience
Proven durability against elite competition
Weaknesses
Can be outworked by high-volume fighters
Defensive footwork can be slow
Cardio has been questioned in longer fights
Has struggled against relentless grapplers
Entering on a two-fight losing streak
Keys to Victory
Keep the fight standing
Use power punches to discourage takedown attempts
Attack de Ridder during entries
Force de Ridder into striking exchanges
Utilize his physical strength in clinch situations
Odds
Reiner De Ridder -375
Roman Dolidze +295
