In the mood for a knockout night out in Abu Dhabi? You’re in luck, because nothing beats the electric buzz of live MMA action. This summer, the capital’s sporting calendar turns up the heat as UFC Fight Night storms back into Etihad Arena on Saturday, July 26. And topping the card? A clash fans have been waiting for: former middleweight champ Robert Whittaker goes head-to-head with undefeated Dutch submission wizard Reinier de Ridder in a showdown that promises fireworks. Before we delve deep into the Whittaker vs. de Ridder UFC fight night, let’s look at these 2 brilliant fighters.
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Robert Whittaker: The Resilient Veteran with a Champion’s Resume
Known as “The Reaper”, Robert Whittaker is no stranger to the big stage. The New Zealand-born, Australia-raised fighter holds a storied UFC career that spans over a decade, during which he’s carved out a reputation for toughness, technique, and unwavering grit. Here’s a sneak peek into his achievements:
- Former UFC Middleweight Champion (2017)
- As of February this year, he is ranked #5 in the UFC middleweight rankings
- Victories over elite fighters including Yoel Romero (twice), Jared Cannonier, Darren Till, Marvin Vettori, and Kelvin Gastelum
- Performance bonuses galore, with Fight of the Night honors in his battles against Romero and Brunson
- Widely respected for his calm demeanour outside the cage and his fierce explosiveness inside it
Whittaker’s style blends his karate roots with polished boxing and elite-level takedown defense. His ability to maintain pace, adapt mid-fight, and strike with precision has made him a perennial title contender, even after losing the belt to Israel Adesanya. Despite recent setbacks, including a decision loss to Dricus du Plessis in 2023, Whittaker remains one of the most respected and dangerous men in the division – and he’s out to prove that his reign isn’t quite over yet.
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Reinier de Ridder: The Dutch Submission Specialist Making His UFC Debut
On the other side of the Octagon is Reinier “The Dutch Knight” de Ridder, a rising force with an unbeaten record and a résumé that speaks volumes. De Ridder comes into this bout with championship credentials and a reputation for technical mastery on the ground.
- Former ONE Championship Middleweight and Light Heavyweight Champion
- Ranked #12 in the UFC middleweight rankings as of June 2025.
- Unbeaten record (16-0) at ONE Championship 159, before entering UFC in 2024, with the majority of his wins coming via submission
- Holds victories over top names in Asia’s MMA scene, including Aung La N Sang and Vitaly Bigdash
- Known for his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, high fight IQ, and calm, calculated approach
De Ridder’s transition from ONE Championship to UFC has been widely anticipated. His ability to control fights on the mat, combined with his physicality and composure, make him a stylistic nightmare for many strikers. Though he’s yet to be tested in the UFC, his clean record and dual-champion status in a major promotion give him legitimacy, and he’s not just here to participate; he’s here to disrupt.
Why Whittaker vs. De Ridder Will Be The Highlight Of The UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi 2025
Simple, think striker vs. grappler, UFC veteran vs. international invader or just firepower vs. finesse. Whittaker brings elite footwork, striking accuracy, and the ability to dictate range. He has shut down grapplers before, but de Ridder’s ground game is arguably on another level.
De Ridder, meanwhile, will look to close the distance, drag Whittaker to the mat, and systematically work toward a finish. His ability to stay patient under pressure and capitalise on even brief openings makes him extremely dangerous. Whittaker’s takedown defense (career 83%) will be tested, while de Ridder must prove he can hang on the feet with one of the division’s best.
Whittaker vs. De Ridder – An Exciting Match-up
This fight has significant implications for the middleweight title picture. A dominant win for Whittaker could thrust him back into title contention, especially with Adesanya’s status uncertain and Du Plessis holding the current belt. For de Ridder, this is the litmus test, a chance to show he belongs among the best in the world and perhaps fast-track his rise toward a UFC title shot.
Beyond rankings, the bout also represents global crossover appeal:
- Whittaker remains one of Australia’s most beloved athletes, a fan-favourite for his humility and warrior mentality.
- De Ridder is a star in the Netherlands and across Europe, especially among submission grappling enthusiasts and ONE Championship loyalists.
Eyes from every corner of the world will be on Abu Dhabi, a growing hub for international MMA.
More UFC Fight Nights To Look Forward To
Apart from Whittaker vs. de Ridder, here are a bunch of thrilling knockouts we’re eagerly awaiting:
Movsar Evloev vs. Aaron Pico
A high-stakes featherweight clash between the undefeated Russian technician and a fierce American newcomer with top-tier wrestling and explosive hands
Petr Yan vs. Marc McGhee
The former bantamweight king, known for his razor-sharp precision and knockout power, faces a rising prospect hungry to shake up the division.
Bryce Mitchell vs. Said Nurmagomedov
A stylistic chess match featuring Mitchell’s unorthodox grappling against Nurmagomedov’s unpredictable striking and elusive movement.
Shara Magomedov returns
The one-eyed knockout machine is back – expect spinning kicks, chaos, and another viral finish.
Nikita Krylov vs. Bogdan Guskov
A brutal light heavyweight banger where knockout potential is sky-high and survival instincts will be put to the test.
Want to Catch The UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi 2025 Live? Here’s How!
Tickets are officially on sale, with prices starting at AED 295 and options for every kind of fight fan — from standard seats to VIP packages that offer premium perks like:
- Fighter meet-and-greets
- Access to weigh-ins
- Private lounges and premium hospitality
- Front-row views so close you’ll feel the canvas shake
Whether you’re cage-side or soaking in the atmosphere from a premium suite, you’re in for an unforgettable night.
Book your tickets via Etihad Arena or Ticketmaster Middle East, but don’t wait too long. With a card this stacked, seats won’t last.
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