Reinier de Ridder has stated he does not rule out a potential rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, though he would prefer a different opponent for his debut in the new weight class. De Ridder confirmed that his next fight is scheduled for the summer. He specifically noted that a rematch with Whittaker is not necessary right now. The comments suggest de Ridder is considering a move up in weight while keeping his options open regarding future opponents. The Dutch fighter's summer timeline indicates he will return to action within the next few months.
Reinier de Ridder has revealed he is open to a rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, though the Dutch fighter made clear it is not a fight he is actively seeking for his debut in the new weight class. De Ridder confirmed his return is penciled in for the summer, leaving the door open on potential opponents without closing it entirely on Whittaker.
De Ridder, 35, carries a 21-4 record and currently sits ranked seventh in the UFC middleweight division. The six-foot-four southpaw out of the Netherlands trains with Combat Brothers and brings an imposing physical frame — a 78-inch reach stretching to 198 cm — that figures to translate well to 205 pounds. His grappling credentials are evident in his numbers, averaging 2.68 takedowns per fifteen minutes alongside a striking accuracy of 53 percent.
Whittaker, also 35, stands across from him on the middleweight ladder at sixth in the rankings with a 27-9 record. The Australian orthodox striker is one of the division's most active and durable competitors, landing 4.39 significant strikes per minute for PMA Super Martial Arts. At six feet tall with a 73-inch reach, he is noticeably smaller in frame than de Ridder, a contrast that would only sharpen if the two met a weight class higher.
Why it matters
- De Ridder moving to light heavyweight would shake up both the 185 and 205-pound divisional pictures.
- A rematch with Whittaker at a higher weight class would be a novel matchup given the physical size disparity between the two.
- De Ridder's summer timeline puts him on track for a return within months, meaning a light heavyweight debut opponent could be announced soon.
- Both fighters remain ranked in the middleweight top ten, so a prolonged absence from that division carries real ranking implications for each.
