Reinier de Ridder has stated he does not rule out the possibility of a rematch with Robert Whittaker, this time at light heavyweight rather than their previous meeting at middleweight. However, de Ridder made it clear that he would prefer to face a different opponent for his debut in a new organization or weight class. He also revealed that his next fight is scheduled to take place during the summer. De Ridder's comments suggest he is keeping his options open while prioritizing fresh matchups. The potential rematch remains a topic of interest given their previous encounter, but it does not appear to be de Ridder's immediate priority.
Reinier de Ridder has opened the door to a rematch with Robert Whittaker, this time at light heavyweight, though the Dutch fighter made clear he would prefer a fresh matchup for his next competitive outing. De Ridder also confirmed that his next fight is expected to take place sometime during the summer.
De Ridder, 35, carries a 21-4 record and is currently ranked seventh at 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 lands 2.68 takedowns per 15 minutes and converts his grappling into submission attempts at a rate of 0.7 per 15 minutes. He also posts a striking accuracy of 53 percent, underlining his efficiency on the feet despite a relatively measured output of 2.2 significant strikes per minute.
Whittaker, ranked sixth at middleweight, holds a 27-9 record and brings a notably different profile to any potential meeting. The 35-year-old Australian, training out of PMA Super Martial Arts, is one of the division's busiest strikers at 4.39 significant strikes per minute, operating out of an orthodox stance with a six-foot frame and a 73-inch reach.
Why it matters
- A rematch at light heavyweight would represent a new weight class challenge for both fighters, adding a fresh dimension to their previous middleweight encounter.
- De Ridder's ranking and grappling-heavy style would test Whittaker's defensive wrestling at 205 pounds, where the dynamics could shift considerably.
- With a summer timeline confirmed for de Ridder's next appearance, the window for a potential booking is relatively short, making his stated preference for a different opponent the more likely near-term outcome.
