Reinier de Ridder has stated he does not rule out a rematch with Robert Whittaker, potentially at light heavyweight. However, de Ridder indicated he would prefer to face a different opponent for his debut in the new weight class. He confirmed that his next fight is scheduled for sometime during the summer. De Ridder emphasized that a rematch with Whittaker is not what he wants immediately. The comments suggest de Ridder is planning a move to light heavyweight division. Specific opponent details or exact timing for the summer bout were not disclosed.
Reinier de Ridder has confirmed he is planning a move to light heavyweight and expects his next fight to take place sometime this summer, while leaving the door open to an eventual rematch with Robert Whittaker at the new weight class.
De Ridder, 35, currently sits ranked seventh in the UFC middleweight division with a professional record of 21-4. The Dutch southpaw stands six-foot-four with a 78-inch reach, giving him natural physical attributes that suit a move up to 205 pounds. He averages 2.68 takedowns per 15 minutes and lands significant strikes at a 53 percent accuracy rate, making him a well-rounded threat at either weight. He trains out of Combat Brothers and competes out of the Netherlands.
Whittaker, also 35, holds a 27-9 record and is ranked sixth at middleweight. The Australian orthodox striker is one of the division's most active and durable competitors, averaging 4.39 significant strikes landed per minute for PMA Super Martial Arts. Standing six feet tall with a 73-inch reach, Whittaker brings a notable size disadvantage into any hypothetical light heavyweight matchup against de Ridder.
De Ridder made clear that while a rematch with Whittaker is not off the table, it is not the fight he wants first in the new division. He indicated a preference for a different opponent to open his light heavyweight campaign, with a bout scheduled for some point during the summer. No opponent or specific date was disclosed.
Why it matters
- De Ridder's size and grappling profile could make him an immediate factor in a crowded light heavyweight division
- A rematch with Whittaker at 205 pounds would carry different dynamics given the significant physical size difference between the two
- Both fighters are currently ranked inside the top ten at middleweight, so the move would affect the divisional picture at both weights
