UFC Fight Night Match Preview - Whittaker vs. de Ridder: Can the Reaper end RdR's win streak? July 24, 2025 by Marc Jerbs

On Saturday, July 26, 2025, UFC Fight Night heads to the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, where a thrilling middleweight main event awaits. Former champion Robert Whittaker will square off against Reinier de Ridder in a highly anticipated showdown, set to headline the main card at 3:00 PM EDT following a strong lineup of prelim bouts. With both fighters eyeing a path to title contention, this matchup carries serious stakes in the ever-competitive 185-pound division.

Fighter Profiles and Styles

Robert Whittaker, a 34-year-old veteran and former UFC Middleweight Champion, enters the octagon with a professional record of 27-8 and 17 UFC victories under his belt. Known for his karate-boxing hybrid style, Whittaker is a master of movement, precision striking, and distance management. His sharp counterattacks and explosive combinations make him a threat on the feet, while his grappling skills—nearly black-belt level in Brazilian jiu-jitsu—bolster his already well-rounded game. Despite a recent submission loss to Khamzat Chimaev, Whittaker remains a top-tier contender, boasting an 81% takedown defense that could prove pivotal in this clash.

Reinier de Ridder, also 34, stands at 6'4" and brings an entirely different challenge. A former two-division champion in ONE Championship, the Dutch southpaw transitioned to the UFC with an immediate impact. Holding a 20-2 record, de Ridder thrives on a grappling-heavy approach, leveraging black belts in both judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He averages 4.74 takedowns per 15 minutes and is a constant submission threat once on the ground. While his striking is less developed than Whittaker's, it is efficient—landing with 60% accuracy—and serves as an effective setup for his grappling attacks.

Whittaker vs. de Ridder Sports Bet Odds

Robert "The Reaper" Whittaker is the favorite to win the match. Here are our latest odds:

• Whittaker as the favorite has a money line of -150 while de Ridder as the underdog has +130.
• The Reaper winning by KO/TKO or DQ has a money line of +180.
• De Ridder pinning Whittaker via submission has a money line of +300.

Strategic Breakdown

This fight is a textbook striker-versus-grappler matchup. Whittaker's success hinges on his ability to keep the fight standing, using his lateral movement, sharp jab, and combinations to frustrate de Ridder. His experience against high-level wrestlers and tactical defensive wrestling could be key to neutralizing takedown attempts.

De Ridder's path to victory lies in closing the distance and dragging the fight to the mat. He excels in clinch situations, using trips and judo throws to initiate ground exchanges where he can capitalize on his submission arsenal. His ability to transition smoothly between positions makes him especially dangerous when the fight hits the canvas.

In terms of stats, Whittaker lands 4.54 significant strikes per minute with 43% accuracy and absorbs 3.14, showcasing his high output and solid defense. De Ridder, by contrast, is more measured, landing 3.25 strikes per minute but with higher efficiency (60%). This contrast sets the stage for a classic tempo battle between volume and control.

Stakes and Predictions

With major implications for the middleweight title picture, the winner of this bout moves significantly closer to a championship opportunity. A victory for Whittaker could propel him into one final title run, reinforcing his elite status. For de Ridder, a win would mark his biggest UFC triumph to date and could catapult him directly into top-five contention.

Analysts expect Whittaker to try and extend the fight into the later rounds, using his technical striking and takedown defense to earn a decision. However, de Ridder's submission game poses a real danger early, especially if he manages to get Whittaker to the ground.

Final Thoughts

Whittaker vs. de Ridder is a compelling stylistic clash between a polished striker with elite defensive skills and a towering grappling specialist with relentless pressure. With both men aiming to solidify their place among the division's best, this main event promises high-stakes drama and tactical warfare.

Whittaker vs. de Ridder Tale of the Tape

Robert "The Reaper" Whittaker	VS	Reiner "RdR" de Ridder
27-8-0	Record	20-2-0
Loss	Last Fight	Win
Australia	Country	Netherlands
6' 0"	Height	6' 4"
185.0 LBS	Weight	185.0 LBS
73.5"	Reach	78.0"
43.0"	Leg Reach	41.0"
43%	Significant Strikes	60%
59%	Strikes Defense	44%
38%	Takedown Accuracy	38%
81%	Takedown Defense	66%