It'll give him range, and defense too which is an issue he has, being a pugilist and all. Earlier versions of Rip had a Bo Staff. These kind of weapons have a lot of uses, and will definitely help him keep a tactical advantage.
But...as for the Naginata I want to steer away from using too many Japanese themed weapons. Too many series abuse them. He's more of a nordic type character anyways, due to his adopted parents. He hasn't followed in Dawn or Ronin's footsteps at all in that respect.