Could De Ridder be Next for Gordon Ryan Post-ADCC?

Gordon Ryan made history this past weekend at the ADCC World Championships, leaving many wondering who, or what, is next for the best submission grappler in the world.

Gordon Ryan’s ADCC Run

ADCC 2022 was a historic event for more than one reason. Kade Ruotolo became the youngest champion in the history of the event, submitting Mica Galvao in the final of their division. Nicholas Meregali emerged with a bronze medal in his division, and a silver in the Absolute, after only 6 months of Nogi training. Ffion Davies became the first British champion in the event’s history, winning the -60kg women’s division. The man that everybody wanted to see though, was ”The King” Gordon Ryan.

Gordon made history at the event, becoming the first person to ever compete in the weight division AND the Superfight at the same tournament. To the surprise of very few, his run was spectacular. He scored gold in the +99kg division, defeating former teammate Nicky Rod in the final, before submitting Andre Galvao in their Superfight. Before Gordon, Galvao was classed as the best ADCC grappler of all time with his accomplishments, but Ryan’s victory eclipsed that at the weekend. The first grappler to win gold in 3 separate weight divisions, the Absolute, and the Superfight, all without a single point ever scored against him.

Who is Next?

Because of the Absolute division, we all know that the next ADCC Superfight will be between Gordon Ryan and Yuri Simoes. However, that is 2 years away. What could potentially be a fun match for both the fans and the competitors involved?

Gordon is signed to Asian based promotion, ONE Championship, on a grappling deal. His next matchup could potentially be contested under that banner.

Reinier De Ridder is an undefeated fighter under ONE’s banner, reigning as their double champ. He is also a BJJ black belt, with plenty of submissions and a previous time limit draw with Galvao to his name. A match under ONE’s ruling could be very interesting for the fans, and financially lucrative for all involved. Other grapplers such as the Ruotolo brothers, Mikey Musumeci, and even Gordon’s teammate and former coach Garry Tonon have all succeeded over in ONE. Naturally, one could guess it won’t be long before the best submission grappler in the world makes his debut for the promotion.

Who do you think Gordon Ryan will face in his next major outing? Make sure to share your thoughts with me over on my Twitter or Instagram!