Brad Riddell (fighter)

Bradley Riddell (born 30 September 1991) is a New Zealand mixed martial artist who competes in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. As of December 6, 2021, he is #14 in the UFC lightweight rankings.

Background

‘Quake’ netted several kickboxing championships around New Zealand during his rise through the regional scene. He also fought professional Muay Thai and kickboxing fights, fighting to a split decision with Glory welterweight champion, Cédric Doumbé, and losing a competitive decision to ONE lightweight champion, Regian Eersel. He also has wins against the likes of famed Aussie kickboxer John Wayne Parr.

Mixed martial arts career

Early career

Riddell made his MMA debut in an unexpected manner, having flown into Myanmar for a Muay Thai fight, but being told upon landing that it was a MMA fight. Then during his Muay Thai/Kickboxing career, he would continue to have MMA fights, mainly in the Glory of Heroes promotion, with his most notable win being a knockout of future fellow UFC fighter Kenan Song.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Brad made his UFC career debut against fellow newcomer, Jamie Mullarkey at UFC 243 on 5 October 2019. In a fast paced fight, Riddell won the fight via unanimous decision and took home the Fight of the Night bonus.

Brad faced Magomed Mustafaev on 23 February 2020 at UFC Fight Night: Felder vs. Hooker. He won the fight via split decision.

Riddell faced Alex da Silva Coelho at UFC 253 on 27 September 2020. He won the fight via unanimous decision.

Riddell was expected to face Gregor Gillespie on 20 March 2021 at UFC on ESPN 21. However, the day of the event the bout was postponed due to COVID-19 protocols.

Riddell faced Drew Dober on 12 June 2021 at UFC 263. He won the fight via unanimous decision. This fight earned him the Fight of the Night award.

Riddell faced Rafael Fiziev on 4 December 2021 at UFC on ESPN 31. He lost the fight via knockout in round three.

Championships and achievements

Mixed martial arts

Ultimate Fighting Championship

Fight of the Night (Two times) vs. Jamie Mullarkey and Drew Dober.

Wollongong Wars

Wollongong Wars Welterweight Championship (One time).

Personal life

Riddell dubbed himself “Quake” in homage to his home city of Christchurch, which was devastated by an earthquake in 2011. The disaster destroyed many of the buildings, including Riddell’s place of work, but it was also the catalyst for him moving to Auckland and building a career in combat sports.