Reinier de Ridder has stated he does not rule out a potential rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, though he prefers to face a different opponent for his debut in the weight class. De Ridder confirmed that his next fight is scheduled for the summer, though no specific date or opponent was announced. The Dutch fighter expressed that while a rematch with Whittaker is not his immediate priority, he remains open to the possibility in the future. De Ridder's comments suggest he is looking to establish himself at light heavyweight before revisiting previous matchups.
Reinier de Ridder has confirmed he is open to a future rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, though the Dutch contender indicated he would prefer a different opponent when he makes his debut in the 205-pound division. De Ridder also confirmed that his next fight is penciled in for the summer, with no opponent or date yet officially announced.
De Ridder, 35, carries a 21-4-0 record and is currently ranked seventh at middleweight. The six-foot-four southpaw out of the Netherlands trains with Combat Brothers and brings considerable grappling pressure to his fights, averaging 2.68 takedowns per fifteen minutes alongside a striking accuracy of 53 percent. His 78-inch reach gives him significant physical advantages over most opponents at any weight class.
Whittaker, who shares the same age and division as de Ridder, holds a 27-9-0 record and sits one spot above him at number six in the middleweight rankings. The Australian orthodox striker is one of the more prolific volume fighters in the sport, landing 4.39 significant strikes per minute for PMA Super Martial Arts. At six feet tall with a 73-inch reach, he would carry a notable size disadvantage if the two were to meet again at light heavyweight.
Why it matters
- De Ridder's move to light heavyweight could shake up a division that is always hungry for credible new contenders
- A potential rematch with Whittaker at 205 pounds would be a stylistically compelling contrast between a high-volume striker and a takedown-heavy grappler
- De Ridder's preference to face someone new first suggests he is focused on building a light heavyweight resume before revisiting prior matchups
