Sean Strickland Dominates Reinier de Ridder via TKO, Calls Out Khamzat Chimaev

Sean Strickland reminded the MMA world why he was once champion with a dominant TKO victory over Reinier de Ridder in the main event of UFC Fight Night at the Apex in Las Vegas on Friday night. The former middleweight titleholder showcased his improved striking and relentless pressure to stop the highly regarded Dutch fighter in the third round.

From the opening bell, Strickland controlled the pace and distance, using his jab to keep de Ridder at bay while landing heavy combinations to the body and head. The 33-year-old Californian looked sharp and focused, displaying the same aggressive style that earned him the UFC middleweight championship just over a year ago.

"I felt amazing in there," Strickland said during his post-fight interview. "My timing was perfect, my conditioning was on point, and I could see everything he was trying to do. Reinier is a tough guy, but I was just the better fighter tonight."

De Ridder, a former ONE Championship titleholder making his second UFC appearance, showed heart and determination but was consistently outgunned by Strickland's superior striking. The Dutch fighter attempted several takedowns throughout the contest but was repeatedly stuffed by Strickland's improved defensive wrestling.

The end came at 2:47 of the third round when Strickland landed a devastating left hook that dropped de Ridder to the canvas. The referee quickly stepped in to stop the contest as Strickland followed up with ground strikes, securing his second consecutive victory since losing the title to Dricus du Plessis.

Immediately following the victory, Strickland wasted no time calling out one of the division's most feared contenders. "Khamzat Chimaev, I know you're watching," Strickland declared to the crowd. "Stop fighting welterweights and come get this work. I'm ready whenever you are, brother."

The callout adds another intriguing wrinkle to the middleweight division, as Chimaev has been vocal about his intention to compete at 185 pounds. With Strickland now back in the win column and looking as dangerous as ever, a potential showdown between these two explosive fighters could steal the show and determine the next title contender in one of the UFC's most competitive divisions.