A significant middleweight matchup headlines UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, with former UFC champion Robert Whittaker taking on former two-division ONE Championship titleholder Reinier de Ridder just weeks before his anticipated 185-pound title fight at UFC 319.

Whittaker (26-8) remains a notable contender despite facing defeat in his last three matches against the current UFC champion Dricus du Plessis, former champion Israel Adesanya, and rising star Khamzat Chimaev. A victory this Saturday is essential for him to maintain his contender status. Facing de Ridder, Whittaker must strategically evade relentless attempts for takedowns.

“He has to shoot early. That will dictate the pace,” Whittaker said. “He’ll shoot, I’ll stuff it, and I’ll hurt him with my hands. I want to get my mits on him.”
Translation: He must begin his attacks right away, as this will set the tempo of the fight. I am prepared to counter his moves and cause significant damage.

Despite his shaky debut against Gerald Meerschaert, de Ridder (20-2) has shown stronger performance against tougher competition, defeating fighters like Kevin Holland and Bo Nickal. A win over Whittaker would mark his fourth victory in eight months and escalate him into title contention.

“I don’t have more than five years to fight,” de Ridder remarked. “I’m trying to make the best of it. Even if I am scheduled to fight for the title, I will be ready.”
Translation: My fighting career has a time limit, so I am eager to seize every opportunity I have. I will be prepared if the title fight materializes.

The co-main event features a notable bout between former bantamweight champion Petr Yan (No. 3) and Marcus McGhee (No. 12), marking a pivotal moment in their careers.

UFC Fight Night Card and Odds

Favorite	Underdog	Weight class
Robert Whittaker -145	Reinier de Ridder +122	Middleweight
Petr Yan -360	Marcus McGhee +280	Bantamweight
Sharabutdin Magomedov -650	Marc-Andre Barriault +450	Middleweight
Asu Almabayev -110	Jose Ochoa -110	Flyweight
Nikita Krylov -190	Bogdan Guskov +160	Light heavyweight

Viewing Information

Date: July 26 | Start Time: 3 p.m. ET (main card)
Location: Etihad Arena – Abu Dhabi | TV Channel: ABC | Stream: Fubo (Start watching, save $20!)

Prediction

Whittaker vs. de Ridder: De Ridder’s pressure and finishing power could pose challenges. However, Whittaker’s experience against higher-ranked competitors provides him a significant advantage. He is expected to defeat De Ridder, likely by knockout in the second round.