What challenges does Reinier de Ridder face ahead of UFC 326?
As Reinier de Ridder prepares for his upcoming fight against Caio Borralho at UFC 326, scheduled for March 7, 2026, a central question looms: Can he overcome recent health challenges and regain his winning momentum? The answer appears to be a cautious yes, as de Ridder has shown resilience and determination despite facing significant obstacles.
De Ridder, a former two-division champion in ONE, made a promising start in the UFC, winning his first four fights after signing in 2024. His victories included notable stoppages against fighters like Gerald Meerschaert, Kevin Holland, and Bo Nickal. However, his trajectory took a downturn when he lost to Brendan Allen by retirement TKO at UFC Vancouver in October 2025.
Following that loss, de Ridder faced serious health issues, including severe anemia and a low red blood cell count. He expressed his struggles candidly, stating, “Just on all levels, my bloodwork, everything was in the trash.” This health crisis raised doubts about his future in the sport, with de Ridder admitting, “I might never fix this stuff. It might be over.” Yet, the allure of competing again has proven strong, as he noted, “With the opportunity there, most likely I make the same dumb decision to fight again, because it was too cool.”
In his upcoming match, de Ridder will face Caio Borralho, who boasts a professional MMA record of 17 wins and 2 losses. This fight is particularly crucial for de Ridder, who currently holds a record of 21 wins and 3 losses. The bout is set to be the co-main event at UFC 326, with an expected start time of 10:40 p.m. ET.
The stakes are high for both fighters. Borralho, looking to solidify his position in the UFC, will aim to capitalize on de Ridder’s recent struggles. Meanwhile, de Ridder’s performance could determine not only his immediate future in the UFC but also his long-term career trajectory.
As the fight date approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how de Ridder will perform after overcoming his health challenges. The outcome of this match could either mark a significant comeback for the former champion or further complicate his journey in mixed martial arts.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding de Ridder’s current health status leading up to the fight, but his determination to compete suggests that he is ready to face the challenges ahead. The fight against Borralho could be a pivotal moment in de Ridder’s career, as he seeks to reclaim his status in the competitive landscape of the UFC.
