Reinier de Ridder has stated he does not rule out a potential rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight in the future. However, de Ridder indicated he would prefer to face a different opponent for his next bout. He confirmed his next fight is scheduled for the summer, though no specific date or opponent was announced. The Dutch fighter expressed that a rematch with Whittaker is not a priority for his immediate return. De Ridder's comments suggest he is looking to establish himself further before potentially revisiting that matchup.
Reinier de Ridder has opened the door to a future rematch with Robert Whittaker at light heavyweight, though the Dutch contender made clear the matchup is not his immediate priority as he prepares for a summer return.
De Ridder, 35, carries a 21-4 record and currently sits ranked seventh in the middleweight division. Standing six-foot-four with a 78-inch reach, the Combat Brothers representative is one of the more physically imposing fighters in the weight class. He averages 2.68 takedowns per 15 minutes and connects on 53 percent of his significant strikes, underlining a well-rounded game that blends wrestling with efficient striking. He confirmed a fight is scheduled for the summer but stopped short of naming a date or opponent, indicating he would prefer a different matchup before revisiting any bout with Whittaker.
Whittaker, also 35, holds a 27-9 record and sits one place above de Ridder at sixth in the middleweight rankings. The Australian is known for a high-volume striking approach, landing 4.39 significant strikes per minute, though his accuracy sits at 43 percent. He trains out of PMA Super Martial Arts and brings considerable championship experience to any potential light heavyweight crossover bout.
Why it matters
- A de Ridder versus Whittaker rematch at light heavyweight would be a notable divisional crossover event for two ranked middleweights
- De Ridder's summer booking will shape the timeline for any future matchup with Whittaker
- Both men are ranked in the top ten at middleweight, meaning the result of either fighter's next outing could shift the picture in a competitive division
