UFC Abu Dhabi 2025: Whittaker vs. De Ridder Showdown & Predictions

The UFC is set to return to Abu Dhabi this weekend for the first of two explosive 2025 fight cards in the Middle East. UFC Fight Night will be headlined by a compelling middleweight matchup between former champion Robert Whittaker and surging contender Reinier de Ridder.

With the UFC bringing its global spectacle back to the Etihad Arena, fans are gearing up for an event filled with hard-hitting action, elite-level technique, and some pivotal moments for several divisions.

But beyond the fight night hype, there’s a deeper story unfolding: a battle between a seasoned veteran aiming to reclaim his elite status, and a rising juggernaut looking to establish dominance in the UFC.

Main Event Preview: Robert Whittaker vs. Reinier de Ridder

Robert Whittaker: The Rebuilding of a Former King

Once atop the UFC middleweight division, Robert Whittaker has seen both triumph and turbulence inside the Octagon. Ranked No. 6 in ESPN’s divisional rankings, Whittaker enters this bout following a difficult loss—his first-round submission defeat to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308 was a major blow. But Whittaker is no stranger to comebacks. Known for his durability, striking finesse, and world-class takedown defense, “The Reaper” thrives when the odds are stacked against him.

Whittaker is not just fighting for a win; he’s fighting to stay relevant in a division that’s rapidly evolving. He has been a gatekeeper to the top for years, fending off younger contenders with precision and heart. His matchup with de Ridder is more than just a fight—it’s a statement opportunity.

Reinier de Ridder: The Undefeated Disruptor

On the other side of the cage, Reinier de Ridder has quickly become a name to watch in the UFC. A former two-division champion in ONE Championship, de Ridder transitioned to the UFC in late 2024 and hasn’t looked back. With an undefeated UFC record and finishes in all three of his bouts, his rise has been nothing short of meteoric.

UFC Fight Night Abu Dhabi promo featuring Whittaker vs Reinier de Ridder

De Ridder’s fighting style is unique long-limbed, pressure-heavy, and grappling-focused. While his striking still needs polish, his ability to close distance and control opponents has made him a nightmare for anyone unprepared for his suffocating jiu-jitsu and cage control.

But this Saturday will be his biggest test yet.

Expert Predictions: Who Has the Edge?

Anthony Smith – ESPN MMA Analyst
Pick: Whittaker by Decision
“De Ridder is a talented grappler, but Whittaker’s MMA experience, striking edge, and ability to control distance gives him the advantage. He’s made a career of stopping young contenders, and I think he does it again.”

Din Thomas – Veteran MMA Coach
Pick: De Ridder by Decision
“Whittaker has faced top-tier competition, but de Ridder’s length, pressure, and unrelenting ground game will frustrate him. If de Ridder can close the gap and avoid clean shots, he can grind this out over five rounds.”

Betting Breakdown: Where’s the Smart Money?

Odds (as of publication):

Whittaker to win: -150
De Ridder to win: +125

Best Bet: Whittaker (-150)
Ian Parker, ESPN betting analyst, sees value in Whittaker. He notes that while de Ridder has excelled against lower-tier opponents, the leap in competition from someone like Bo Nickal to Robert Whittaker is steep. Whittaker’s experience in championship rounds, superior striking, and ability to defend takedowns makes him the safer pick.

Stylistic Matchup Breakdown

Attribute	Whittaker	De Ridder
Striking	✅ Superior boxing, great footwork	❌ Needs work
Grappling	✅ Great takedown defense	✅ Elite submissions
Experience	✅ Former champ, top-tier résumé	❌ New to UFC elite level
Cardio	✅ Proven in 5-round wars	❌ Questionable in late rounds

Whittaker’s best path to victory is clear: keep the fight standing and force de Ridder into uncomfortable exchanges. De Ridder’s path: close the distance, wear Whittaker down in the clinch, and take it to the mat.

Fight Night Undercard Preview: Top Fights to Watch

Men’s Flyweight: Asu Almabayev vs. Jose Ochoa

Pick: Ochoa to win (-110)

Jose Ochoa is the sleeper pick of the night. Fast, creative, and lethal with his hands, Ochoa just needs to stuff Almabayev’s takedowns to dominate this fight. In Almabayev’s last bout, he couldn’t take Manel Kape down and ended up getting finished. If Ochoa follows that blueprint, he should walk away with a big win.

Light Heavyweight: Nikita Krylov vs. Bogdan Guskov

Pick: Krylov to win (-185)

Veteran Krylov has the tools to stifle the momentum of Bogdan Guskov, who’s riding high after a recent knockout win. Expect Krylov to use his grappling advantage early to nullify Guskov’s dangerous striking and take the fight to the mat. If he does, it could be a one-sided affair.

Light Heavyweight: Ibo Aslan vs. Billy Elekana

Pick: Aslan by KO/TKO

Aslan, despite a recent setback, remains a dangerous striker with knockout power. Elekana is not a wrestler, which means this fight likely stays on the feet where Aslan thrives. A first-round KO could be incoming.

Why This Card Matters for the UFC in 2025

Abu Dhabi has become a central hub for global MMA. The UFC’s partnership with the UAE ensures high-profile cards that cater to international audiences, and UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs. De Ridder is no exception. This card serves multiple purposes:

A test of legacy for Whittaker: Can he hold off a new threat and make another title run?
A proving ground for de Ridder: Can he truly hang with the top-tier UFC talent?
Rising contenders like Ochoa and Aslan get prime time to show their worth.

The results of this card will directly affect UFC rankings and set the tone for upcoming matchups later in 2025.

What’s Next for the Winner?

If Whittaker Wins: A top-3 opponent or even a potential rematch with Chimaev could be on the table. With Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland still looming, the middleweight division is wide open.
If De Ridder Wins: He becomes an instant top-5 middleweight and a serious contender for the title. With his unique style and dominant record, he could get fast-tracked into a No. 1 contender fight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What time does UFC Abu Dhabi 2025 start?
Prelims begin at 12 p.m. ET; the main card starts at 3 p.m. ET.

Q2: Where can I watch UFC Fight Night live?
The event will be streamed on ESPN+, with select fights airing on ABC.

Q3: Is this de Ridder’s toughest UFC test?
Absolutely. Whittaker is a former champion with years of experience against top contenders.

Q4: What’s the betting favorite?
As of now, Whittaker is the favorite at -150 odds.

Q5: Where is the event being held?
At the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Final Thoughts: Must-Watch or Skip?

This card is a must-watch, especially if you’re a fan of elite-level tactics and evolving storylines. From the main event drama to intriguing undercard talent, UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi has all the ingredients for a memorable evening.

Whittaker’s redemption arc meets de Ridder’s undefeated streak in a clash of styles that promises to deliver. Don’t miss it.