Robert Whittaker faces a formidable challenge this Saturday as the former UFC middleweight champion steps into the octagon against Reinier de Ridder in the main event of UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi.
"This is a classic clash of styles that fans won't want to miss," – commented UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby during the pre-fight press conference.
The betting odds reflect a competitive matchup, with Whittaker installed as a modest -155 favorite while de Ridder comes in as a +130 underdog. But don't let those numbers fool you – many analysts believe the "Dutch Knight" has all the tools needed to pull off an upset.
Reinier de Ridder brings an impressive 20-2 career record to this fight, including three consecutive UFC victories. His most recent performance sent shockwaves through the division when he derailed the Bo Nickal hype train with a second-round knockout despite entering as a +245 underdog.
Meanwhile, Robert Whittaker has been a fixture in the UFC's 185-pound division since 2014, compiling a 14-4 record with his only recent losses coming against elite competition like Israel Adesanya, Dricus du Plessis, and Khamzat Chimaev.
The physical dynamics of this matchup are particularly interesting. Whittaker began his career as a welterweight and remains on the smaller side for middleweight. By contrast, de Ridder previously held championships at both middleweight and light heavyweight in ONE Championship, standing 6-foot-4 with a frame built for grappling dominance.
Speaking of grappling – that's where this fight could be decided. De Ridder boasts 13 submission victories and two European BJJ Championship silver medals. Remember how he outgrappled NCAA Division I champion wrestler Bo Nickal? That same ground game could give Whittaker serious problems.
By the way, Whittaker's durability has become a legitimate concern after being finished in two of his last four fights. Though he's still elite, the wars he's endured throughout his career might be taking a toll.
This stylistic battle pits de Ridder's pressure grappling and size advantage against Whittaker's technical striking and footwork. Can the former UFC champ keep this fight standing long enough to implement his gameplan? Or will the "Dutch Knight" add another high-profile submission to his growing collection?
