Reinier de Ridder makes light heavyweight return against and Roman Dolidze at UFC Sacramento

Reinier de Ridder will make his return to light heavyweight when he faces Roman Dolidze at UFC Sacramento on August 22 at Golden 1 Center, according to MMA Fighting's Damon Martin.

De Ridder, a former two-division champion in ONE Championship who joined the UFC in 2024, initially made an impressive splash at middleweight. The Dutch fighter won his first four UFC bouts, including a notable victory over prospect Bo Nickal in his debut and a split decision over former champion Robert Whittaker. That success appeared to position de Ridder for a middleweight title shot, but two consecutive defeats derailed that trajectory—a TKO loss to Brendan Allen followed by a decision loss to Caio Borralho prompted his shift up to 205 pounds.

Dolidze has been a middleweight staple since joining the UFC in 2020, but recent struggles at 185 pounds have pushed him to test light heavyweight waters. The Georgian fighter owns a 3-0 record in the light heavyweight division inside the octagon, most recently defeating one-time title challenger Anthony Smith by decision in 2024. With a 15-5 record overall, Dolidze is seeking to revive his career at a heavier weight class where he has found previous success.

Both fighters are attempting to reverse recent losing streaks and reestablish themselves in the UFC rankings. For de Ridder, the move back to light heavyweight represents a chance to pursue contention at a division that may better suit his frame after middleweight setbacks. Dolidze, meanwhile, hopes his lighter touch at 205 pounds can restore his momentum after a pair of losses at his previous weight class.