UFC Abu Dhabi 2025: Whittaker vs. de Ridder Fight Results and Highlights

In a highly anticipated showdown at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, Robert Whittaker faced Reinier de Ridder on July 26, 2025, in a main event that attracted significant attention from MMA fans worldwide. The fight marked a critical juncture in both fighters' careers, as Whittaker, a former UFC Middleweight Champion, sought to reclaim his status in the division, while de Ridder aimed to establish himself as a serious contender following a successful run in ONE Championship.

Whittaker, known for his tactical striking and solid grappling, entered the octagon with a professional record of 26 wins and 8 losses. His formidable reputation in the UFC has been cemented through a series of high-level performances, despite recent setbacks against top contenders such as Israel Adesanya and Khamzat Chimaev. The New Zealand native's last title fight occurred in 2019, and he has been on a mission to secure another opportunity.

Conversely, de Ridder, boasting a record of 20 wins and 2 losses, was looking to leverage his experience as a two-division champion in ONE Championship to make an impact in the UFC. After enduring two consecutive defeats in his previous promotion, he rebounded with four consecutive victories, including a notable upset over rising star Bo Nickal. The Dutch fighter’s confidence and skill set posed a unique challenge for Whittaker, making this matchup particularly intriguing.

The preliminary card commenced at 12 p.m. ET, with the main card starting at 3 p.m. ET, broadcast live on ABC and ESPN+. Among the other notable bouts, former bantamweight champion Petr Yan faced Marcus McGhee, adding to the excitement of the event.

As the fight progressed, Whittaker displayed his striking prowess, utilizing footwork and precision to evade de Ridder’s grappling attempts. However, de Ridder, known for his relentless style, continued to press forward, looking for opportunities to capitalize on any openings. The bout was characterized by a blend of striking exchanges and grappling sequences, showcasing the skills of both fighters.

In the end, Whittaker’s experience proved pivotal. He secured a unanimous decision victory, further solidifying his position within the middleweight division. "I am grateful for this win and the support from my fans here in Abu Dhabi," Whittaker stated in his post-fight interview. "Reinier is a tough competitor, and this match has only strengthened my resolve to get back to the title."

De Ridder, despite the loss, remained optimistic about his future in the UFC. "This was a valuable experience for me, and I will learn from it. I’m here to compete with the best, and I’m determined to come back stronger," he said, reflecting on the fight.

The event also featured other exciting matchups, including notable performances from fighters such as Shara Magomedov and Asu Almabayev. Magomedov faced off against Marc-Andre Barriault, while Almabayev battled Jose Ochoa in the flyweight division, both contributing to a night filled with thrilling moments.

Looking ahead, Whittaker's victory positions him well for a potential title shot, depending on the outcomes of future fights in the division. Meanwhile, de Ridder's resilience and adaptability will likely keep him in discussions for high-stakes matchups as he aims to rebound from this setback. The UFC Abu Dhabi event not only showcased elite-level MMA but also highlighted the growing popularity of the sport in the region, setting the stage for future events in the Middle East.