Reinier De Ridder Prepares to Settle the Score with Malykhin at ONE 166

19 February 2024

Excitement is building as martial arts fans eagerly anticipate the highly anticipated rematch between Reinier “The Dutch Knight” de Ridder and Anatoly “Sladkiy” Malykhin. Scheduled for March 1, this epic showdown will see de Ridder defend his ONE Middleweight MMA World Title against the only man to have defeated him, Malykhin, who currently holds the ONE Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight MMA World Titles. The rematch promises to be a thrilling spectacle, set against the stunning backdrop of the Lusail Sports Arena as the main event of ONE 166: Qatar.

Their first encounter in December 2022 ended in a shocking knockout victory for Malykhin, tarnishing de Ridder's previously unblemished record and stripping him of one of his two world titles. Reflecting on his performance, de Ridder admitted to feeling complacent and overconfident, having enjoyed a string of easy victories prior to facing Malykhin.

In an interview with onefc.com, de Ridder confessed, “I made a mistake. I wasn’t myself. I dropped the ball, and I’m looking to make good on this one.” The loss prompted de Ridder to reevaluate his training approach and mindset, recognizing the need to refocus on his strengths and address areas for improvement.

With meticulous preparation underway, de Ridder has dedicated himself to enhancing his physical conditioning and refining his striking skills at the renowned Hemmers Gym in the Netherlands. Additionally, he has prioritized strengthening his mental fortitude, determined not to repeat the errors of his past.

Despite the personal setback of his defeat to Malykhin, de Ridder approaches the rematch with a sense of determination and redemption. He views the upcoming bout as an opportunity to reclaim his title and reaffirm his status as one of the sport's most skilled submission artists.

As anticipation mounts for ONE 166, fans eagerly await the outcome of this epic rematch, poised to witness whether de Ridder can overcome his adversary and reignite his path to victory in the ONE Championship arena.