Reinier de Ridder has discussed the possibility of a rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, though he indicated he would prefer a different opponent for his UFC debut. De Ridder confirmed that his next fight is scheduled for summer but did not specify an exact date or opponent. The Dutch fighter previously faced Whittaker and is now considering his options as he transitions to the UFC roster. De Ridder expressed that a rematch with Whittaker is not currently his priority for his promotional debut. The channel's reaction suggests agreement that an immediate rematch would not be ideal. Further details about potential opponents or the specific summer event were not provided.
Reinier de Ridder has confirmed that a summer UFC debut is in the works, but the Dutch contender made clear he would rather face someone other than Robert Whittaker when he makes his first walk to the Octagon.
Speaking in a recent interview, de Ridder acknowledged that a rematch with Whittaker exists as a possibility down the line at light heavyweight, yet stressed it is not a priority for his promotional entrance. He did not name a preferred opponent or specify which summer event he is targeting.
De Ridder, 35, carries a 21-4-0 record into the UFC and enters as the seventh-ranked middleweight. Standing six-foot-four with a 78-inch reach, the southpaw out of the Netherlands and Combat Brothers is a well-rounded threat who averages 2.68 takedowns per 15 minutes and lands strikes at a 53 percent accuracy clip, one of the sharper rates in the division.
Whittaker, also 35, is no stranger to high-profile matchups. The Australian sits at number six in the middleweight rankings with a 27-9-0 record and remains one of the busiest strikers in the weight class, averaging 4.39 significant strikes per minute for PMA Super Martial Arts. The orthodox fighter stands six feet tall with a 73-inch reach.
Why it matters
- De Ridder's UFC arrival adds a grappling-heavy option to a middleweight division already crowded with ranked contenders.
- A Whittaker rematch at light heavyweight would carry cross-divisional intrigue, though de Ridder wants to establish himself at 185 pounds first.
- The stylistic contrast between de Ridder's takedown-oriented game and Whittaker's high-volume striking makes any eventual meeting a compelling matchup on paper.
