The Journey of Reinier de Ridder: From Tilburg to the UFC

Reinier de Ridder, a rising star in the UFC, has made waves with his impressive skills and calm demeanor. At 35 years old, he is set to face Brendan Allen in Vancouver on October 18, after a change in his original opponent. But where does this quiet fighter come from, and what shaped his disciplined approach to combat sports? Born on September 7, 1990, in Tilburg, Netherlands, De Ridder grew up in a city known for its vibrant culture and strong sports heritage. Tilburg, with its mix of urban life and tight-knit communities, provided a solid foundation for his development. De Ridder has spoken fondly of his upbringing, describing it as a good place to grow up with plenty of opportunities. Though he didn’t have a tough childhood, he found his passion in martial arts, which became a major part of his life. De Ridder’s journey in martial arts began with judo at the age of five, where he earned a black belt in his teens. This early training instilled in him values of balance, leverage, and humility. His transition to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) proved to be a turning point, leading to medals at the European BJJ Championship in 2016 and 2017. These achievements set the stage for his success in MMA, where he has become known for his calculated and efficient grappling techniques. Growing up, De Ridder didn’t have a rags-to-riches story. His parents, a taxi driver and a civil servant, provided a stable environment. Though he was academically strong, his interests lay in athletics, particularly in martial arts. He often chose playing football over studying, showing an early preference for physical activity over academics. This love for sports shaped his discipline and focus, traits that have become central to his fighting style. Today, De Ridder fights out of Breda, Netherlands, but Tilburg remains a significant part of his story. The city’s blend of opportunities and structure helped mold him into the disciplined fighter he is today. Beyond the cage, he balances his fighting career with co-owning a physical therapy clinic in Breda, showing his commitment to both his sport and his community. His journey is one of steady progress, discipline, and control, proving that success in MMA doesn’t always come from chaos but from a focused and methodical approach.