Robert Whittkaker is a former UFC middleweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/X @UFC_News
Robert whittaker is confident for the duel with Ridder's Reinier in the main fight of UFC Abu Dhabi, on Saturday (26). The former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg) returns to the octagon nine months after the jaw injury he suffered in the defeat to Khamzat ShimaevThe Australian gave an assessment of his next opponent: Ridder's Reinier.
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"(Reinier DeRidder) is a talented fighter. He's been on the track many times, fought for titles, held titles, and moved up through many weight classes. It's going to be a tough fight. He's a veteran in his own right. And I'm looking forward to the test ahead," Whittaker said in a press conference at 'media day'.
"He's never fought anyone like me. Getting my gloves and getting my hands on him is the plan. I'm fast. I think my striking is better than his. So, I need to find the gaps, the openings, and close them... I imagine he'll try to take me down right away. He has good striking, but he understands my strengths, understands his own, and I think he'll want to go to the ground to use that," said the former champion.
Opponent projects the belt
Ridder's Reinier He's only recently arrived at the UFC, but he's already hatching a bold plan to win the middleweight title in the world's largest MMA organization. The Dutchman hopes an unexpected opportunity will soon arise.
In the main fight UFC 319, Dricus Du Plessis faces Khamzat Shimaev for the middleweight title. However, De Ridder sees this scenario as a golden opportunity. In an interview with 'Submission Radio,' he revealed that he's rooting for Chimaev to withdraw from the fight at the last minute, which could pave the way for him to enter the title fight just two weeks after his next appearance.
“I still hope Khamzat backs out at the last minute. The UFC 319 It's two weeks after my fight, so maybe we'll still get lucky," said the former ONE FC champion.
The hope that the 'Wolf' will withdraw from the fight comes from Chimaev's history of canceled fights in the UFC. The Chechen has had six fights canceled throughout his career, most of them due to his health.
Who is Reinier de Ridder?
Known for his successful career in Glory, De Ridder made his UFC debut with an immediate impact. In his first fight, he submitted Gerald meerschaert still in the first round. Next, he faced Kevin holland and repeated the feat, winning again by submission in the opening round. In his most recent performance, knocked out the promising BoNickal, securing his place in the organization's middleweight rankings.
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