Reinier de Ridder has stated he does not rule out a potential rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight. However, the Dutch fighter indicated he would prefer to face a different opponent for his debut in a new weight class. De Ridder also revealed that his next fight is scheduled to take place during the summer. The exact date and opponent remain unannounced. The post's author commented that a rematch with Whittaker is not needed right now.
Reinier de Ridder has confirmed he is open to a rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, but made clear he would prefer a different opponent when he makes his debut in the new weight class. The Dutch fighter also revealed his next bout is expected to take place sometime during the summer, though no date or opponent has been officially announced.
De Ridder, ranked seventh at middleweight, carries a 21-4-0 record into whatever comes next. The six-foot-four southpaw out of the Netherlands trains with Combat Brothers and brings a well-rounded game to the table, averaging 2.68 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside a striking accuracy of 53 percent. At 35, he appears motivated to test himself at a higher weight class rather than revisit old business straight away.
Whittaker, ranked sixth at middleweight and also 35, holds a 27-9-0 record and represents one of the division's most experienced and durable competitors. The Australian orthodox striker out of PMA Super Martial Arts lands an impressive 4.39 significant strikes per minute, making him one of the more volume-heavy fighters in the weight class. His reach of 73 inches and height of six feet even have long been features of a style built around output and forward pressure.
Why it matters
- De Ridder's light heavyweight debut will carry immediate divisional implications given his grappling-heavy skill set and size.
- A potential Whittaker rematch at light heavyweight remains on the table, adding a layer of intrigue to how both men's paths unfold.
- The style contrast between de Ridder's takedown-oriented approach and Whittaker's high-volume striking makes any future matchup between the two a compelling watch regardless of division.
