Reinier de Ridder has stated he is not ruling out a rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, but would prefer to face a different opponent for his debut in the division. The former ONE Championship double champion explicitly stated that a rematch with Whittaker is not needed right now. De Ridder also revealed that his next fight is scheduled for summer, though no specific opponent or date has been announced. The comments suggest de Ridder is looking to establish himself at light heavyweight before potentially revisiting the Whittaker matchup.
Reinier de Ridder has made clear he is open to a rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, but the Dutch fighter would rather establish himself in the division first before revisiting that matchup. Speaking publicly, de Ridder confirmed his next fight is penciled in for summer, though no opponent or specific date has been announced.
De Ridder, 35, carries a 21-4 record and is currently ranked seventh at middleweight, the division where he built his reputation as a former ONE Championship double champion. Standing six-foot-four with a 78-inch reach, the southpaw from the Netherlands is a credible grappling threat, averaging 2.68 takedowns per 15 minutes and landing strikes at a 53 percent accuracy rate. His frame and wrestling credentials make him an intriguing addition to the light heavyweight mix.
Whittaker, also 35, sits at sixth in the middleweight rankings with a 27-9 record. The Australian is one of the more active strikers in the division, landing 4.39 significant strikes per minute, and his orthodox stance and forward pressure have defined his style throughout a lengthy UFC career. The six-foot, 73-inch reach frame contrasts sharply with de Ridder's physical profile.
Why it matters
- De Ridder is transitioning to light heavyweight and wants a fresh debut opponent rather than walking straight into a rematch
- A win over a credible 205-pound name first would give de Ridder a stronger foundation before any return bout with Whittaker
- The Whittaker rematch remains on the table, keeping a potentially compelling matchup alive for later in 2026 or beyond
- Both fighters currently hold top-ten middleweight rankings, meaning their career paths could intersect in multiple divisions
