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ONE Middleweight and Light Heavyweight World Champion Reinier de Ridder doesn’t see any way Demetrious Johnson can upset Adriano Moraes in their highly anticipated rematch.

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The MMA great runs it back with the longtime flyweight king in the main event of ONE on Prime Video 1: Moraes vs. Johnson II this Friday, August 26, and he has been working hard on developing the skills needed to even the score in the heated rivalry.

However, based on what “The Dutch Knight” saw in their first duel in April 2021, he is confident Moraes will dominate Johnson as soon as the contest kicks off inside the Circle – and score another decisive victory in the end.

“I think it’s more of the same, to be honest. Adriano was just too dominant. I’d say [it ends with a] rear-naked choke, third round,” De Ridder said.

Two of the skills that convinced the Dutch fighter to back “Mikinho” to win are the Brazilian’s striking dexterity and movement on the ground.

Moraes utilized his height and reach advantage to keep his legendary opponent at bay in their first encounter. And when the match went to the canvas, the World Champion’s pace and movement constantly pushed “Mighty Mouse” onto the back foot.

The Brazilian eventually finished the bout by landing a knee to Johnson’s head in the second round, crowning him the first man to knock out the legendary star.

Reinier de Ridder believes father time has caught up with Demetrious Johnson

“Mighty Mouse” has said that he is confident he can gain some redemption at the upcoming event, which broadcasts live in U.S. primetime, but “The Dutch Knight” doesn’t see that happening.

Read More – “Go Out on My Shield” – Fear of ‘10% Gone’ Made 36-Year-Old Demetrious Johnson Do the Unthinkable

“[Moraes] moves too well [and is] too big for DJ, and it’s his time. DJ’s had his time. He’s been the best for a long time, but those days are over right now,” he said.

If Moraes defends his World Title against the MMA icon again, it will be the icing on the cake for the superstar, who is eager to continue building his legacy in the sport.

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In a previous interview with ONE, the Brazilian kingpin revealed how his victory over Johnson changed fans’ outlook on him. And he hopes another win over the MMA icon will do the same for him this Friday.

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“This fight is very important for my legacy because I want to make as many title defenses as I can during my career. And [another] victory over him will help a lot in building that legacy,” Moraes said.

Read More – “So Effortless” – Fans Say the Same Thing as Demetrious Johnson Displays Hidden Talent at the Cost of Former Rival