The 34-year-old has inked a multi-fight contract with the UFC, as confirmed by MMA Junkie through a close source. De Ridder, with a professional record of 17-2, is poised to make his octagon debut at 185 pounds in the UFC, although details about the location and his first opponent are yet to be disclosed.

Prior to joining the UFC, De Ridder had a successful stint in ONE Championship, where he held both the middleweight and light heavyweight titles. He had a strong start in ONE Championship, winning his first seven fights before facing Anatoly Malykhin in consecutive bouts that resulted in him losing both titles. Following his time with ONE, De Ridder competed in UAE Warriors in July, where he secured a first-round TKO victory that led to his transition to the UFC.

Fans and MMA enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating De Ridder's debut in the UFC, which is expected to be a highly anticipated and intriguing matchup at 185 pounds. With his experience, skill set, and achievements in ONE Championship, De Ridder is set to bring a new dynamic to the UFC middleweight division. Stay tuned for further updates on De Ridder's first fight in the octagon and the path he will carve in the UFC.