Two-weight ONE champion Anatoly Malykhin gave an exclusive interview to Telecomasia.net, discussing the strengths of Reinier de Ridder ahead of his UFC fight against Robert Whittaker.
Anatoly Malykhin exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
It's going to be a tough fight. It could end either way. De Ridder is very strong. I fought him at 92 kg, and he was powerful then; now at 84 kg, he is still impressive. His power is often underestimated. Reinier is very tough. Apart from me, he has beaten everyone and even tried the heavyweight division. He has bulletproof confidence and is very mentally resilient. I was highly motivated too and still had a hard time. De Ridder is a high-level fighter: he can grapple, hold positions, and strike. He caught me a couple of times. He can make some noise at 84 kg. There are few wrestlers there, except for Khamzat Chimaev. He can easily handle everyone else.
The fight between Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder will take place on July 26 at UFC on ABC 9. The Australian has a record of 26 wins and eight losses, while de Ridder boasts 20 wins and two losses.
Malykhin has faced de Ridder twice in ONE, winning both times by technical knockout.
