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The UFC is set to deliver another electrifying showdown as former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker takes on rising submission specialist Reinier de Ridder in a highly anticipated bout on July 26, 2025. This fight promises fireworks, with Whittaker’s elite striking and de Ridder’s world-class grappling creating a fascinating stylistic clash.
In this in-depth preview, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this matchup—fighter backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses, fight predictions, and where to watch. Plus, we’ve included valuable external links to boost your UFC knowledge and this article’s SEO.
Fight Details & How to Watch
- Event: UFC Fight Night / UFC on ESPN+
- Main Event: Robert Whittaker vs. Reinier de Ridder
- Date: July 26, 2025
- Time: Prelims at 5 PM ET / Main Card at 8 PM ET
- Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Broadcast: ESPN+ (U.S.), BT Sport (UK), UFC Fight Pass (International)
Where to Stream UFC Whittaker vs. de Ridder
- ESPN+ PPV Link (U.S.)
- DAZN (Select Regions)
- UFC Official Broadcast Partners (Global List)
Robert Whittaker: The Reaper’s Redemption
Career Highlights
- Former UFC Middleweight Champion (2017-2019)
- Record: 26-7 (9 KO, 5 Submissions)
- Key Wins: Yoel Romero (x2), Jared Cannonier, Darren Till
- Fighting Style: Elite boxing, high-volume striking, strong takedown defense
Whittaker, one of the most skilled middleweights in UFC history, is looking to rebound after a tough loss in his last title shot. Known for his crisp jab, footwork, and durability, “The Reaper” has only lost to the very best (Israel Adesanya, Dricus du Plessis).
Strengths
✔ Striking Accuracy – One of the best boxers at 185 lbs
✔ Takedown Defense (85% in UFC) – Critical against de Ridder
✔ Championship Experience – Fought the best of the best
Weaknesses
❌ Can be hittable in exchanges
❌ Past struggles against elite grapplers (Adesanya neutralized him)
Reinier de Ridder: The Dutch Grappling Phenom
Career Highlights
- Former ONE Championship Double Champion (Middleweight & Light Heavyweight)
- Record: 17-1 (12 Submissions)
- Key Wins: Aung La N Sang (x2), Vitaly Bigdash
- Fighting Style: Elite BJJ, suffocating top control, relentless submissions
De Ridder, making his UFC debut, is one of the most dangerous grapplers in MMA today. With a black belt in BJJ and a knack for choking out opponents, he poses a unique threat to Whittaker.
Strengths
✔ Submission Mastery – 12 wins by tapout
✔ Unorthodox Striking – Uses feints to set up takedowns
✔ Size & Length – Tall for middleweight (6’4”)
Weaknesses
❌ Untested in UFC – ONE competition level is debated
❌ Striking Defense – Can be hit cleanly
Fight Breakdown: Whittaker’s Striking vs. de Ridder’s Grappling
Striking Battle
Whittaker holds a clear advantage on the feet. His jab, leg kicks, and combinations could pick de Ridder apart. However, RDR’s long reach (82” vs. Whittaker’s 73.5”) might help him keep distance early.
🔑 Key Factor: If Whittaker keeps it standing, he wins.
Grappling Battle
De Ridder’s best path to victory is dragging Whittaker into deep waters. If he gets top control, his submission threats (rear-naked chokes, arm triangles) are lethal.
🔑 Key Factor: Whittaker’s 85% takedown defense must hold up.
X-Factors
- UFC Debut Jitters? – Will de Ridder struggle with UFC pressure?
- Whittaker’s Chin – Has been wobbled in past fights
- Cardio – Both men are five-round fighters
Prediction: Who Wins?
Expert Pick: Robert Whittaker by Decision
While de Ridder is a nightmare matchup for many, Whittaker’s takedown defense and volume striking should carry him to a 48-47 decision win. However, if de Ridder gets him down early, a submission upset is possible.
Betting Odds (DraftKings)
- Whittaker: -180 (Favorite)
- de Ridder: +150 (Underdog)
(Odds subject to change – check Best Fight Odds for updates.)
Undercard Fights to Watch
While Whittaker vs. de Ridder headlines, the card is stacked:
- Rafael Fiziev vs. Arman Tsarukyan (Lightweight Co-Main)
- Maycee Barber vs. Natalia Silva (Women’s Flyweight)
- Jailton Almeida vs. Alexander Romanov (Heavyweight)
(Full fight card available on UFC.com.)
Final Thoughts & Why You Can’t Miss This Fight
This is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup with major implications for the middleweight division. If Whittaker wins, he’s back in title contention. If de Ridder wins, he instantly becomes a UFC star.
How to Watch Replays
Missed the live event? Catch replays on:
External Links
To enhance your UFC knowledge and this article’s, here are valuable resources:
- UFC Official Rankings
- Robert Whittaker’s UFC Profile
- Reinier de Ridder’s ONE Profile
- Best UFC Betting Sites (Sherdog)
- MMA Junkie News (Latest UFC Updates)
Final Words
UFC on July 26, 2025, is a must-watch event, and Whittaker vs. de Ridder could be an instant classic. Will “The Reaper” prove he’s still elite, or will de Ridder shock the world?