Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker (26-8) headlines the UFC on ABC event on July 26 in Abu Dhabi, facing the rising Dutch fighter Reinier de Ridder (20-2). This eagerly anticipated match will see Whittaker seeking redemption after suffering a first-round submission loss to Khamzat Chimaev in his last outing. Currently ranked No. 5 in the middleweight division, Whittaker finds himself in an interesting position as he fights a lower-ranked opponent, de Ridder, who is ranked No. 13. However, de Ridder enters this fight with momentum, riding a four-fight winning streak, having finished all three of his UFC opponents.
Whittaker expressed his eagerness to return to the octagon, telling Submission Radio, "I've been preparing for a fight, trying to stay ready for a fight. I was looking for June, but it never kind of came around. And then they came back to me and said RDR, July, Abu Dhabi... I just jumped at the opportunity and said, yes, and here we are." This determination to take on de Ridder highlights Whittaker’s ambition to make a significant impact and return to title contention.
Reinier de Ridder showcases impressive grappling skills, with 13 of his 20 victories coming by way of submission. His last bout saw him successfully defend against multiple takedown attempts from Bo Nickal, a former three-time NCAA Division I national champion wrestler. Whittaker acknowledges de Ridder's grappling prowess, stating, "He's a dangerous guy. If you look at a lot of guys in the Top 5, all those guys have really good grappling and a very dangerous skill set. You have to have a very well-rounded, dangerous skill set to play in these upper numbers."
Despite de Ridder’s reputation, Whittaker is confident in his game plan. He believes that maintaining control over the pace and flow of the fight will be key to his success. "I think this fight is going to be one where if I push the pace to where I want it to go, if I control the fight, control the dance, I can take the fight to where I want it to go," Whittaker explained. "I can really maneuver the fight and push it into places where I'm really strong." This strategic approach could be crucial as Whittaker aims to dictate how the match unfolds.
Whittaker is not just aiming for a victory; he also wants to send a clear message to the division. "I want to set a statement in this next fight. I want to really send a message and work my way up to the title," he proclaimed. This will be more than just a fight for Whittaker; it is an opportunity to reestablish himself as a top contender and demonstrate his readiness for another championship run.
The matchup between Whittaker and de Ridder has the potential to be a thrilling encounter, with both fighters showcasing their unique skills and determination. Whittaker's goal of a triumphant return, coupled with de Ridder’s aspirations to establish himself in the division, sets the stage for an exciting showdown in Abu Dhabi. As fans eagerly await this important clash in the middleweight division, the fight promises to deliver high stakes and impressive performances from both combatants.
