Middleweight competition heats up as Robert Whittaker prepares to face Reinier de Ridder at UFC Abu Dhabi, a fight that holds significant implications for both fighters’ futures. Khamzat Chimaev, currently gearing up for his UFC title shot at UFC 319, weighed in on the matchup, cautioning de Ridder that Whittaker remains a formidable opponent despite recent setbacks.
Chimaev emphasizes the challenge Whittaker poses despite recent defeat
Although Robert Whittaker suffered a first-round submission loss to Khamzat Chimaev in a prior contest, many still view him as a top middleweight threat heading into UFC Abu Dhabi. Whittaker’s career features ups and downs, but he has retained his status among the division‘s elite for years. The recent loss to Chimaev did not reveal how he would perform in later rounds, since the fight ended prematurely.
Chimaev, however, expressed skepticism that Reinier de Ridder will find Whittaker an easy adversary to finish, despite Whittaker’s prior defeat. In a video released by the UFC, Chimaev described the upcoming fight as a tough matchup between two skilled fighters, highlighting Whittaker’s resilience and experience.
“It will be a good fight, tough fight, and both guys are good fighters. I think the other guy is more of a wrestler, a grappler. He’s going to try to take him down and submit. Robert is not that easy of an opponent like everyone thinks. I got the chance, I [did] damage fast but it’s not that easy opponent like everyone thinks. So, it will be fun to watch that fight.”
—Khamzat Chimaev, UFC Fighter
This sentiment was echoed on social media, where Chimaev reiterated that de Ridder, known for his grappling and wrestling, faces a challenging task against Whittaker, who he insists is tougher than many believe.
De Ridder aims to secure a statement victory over Whittaker
Reinier de Ridder enters the bout fully aware that defeating Robert Whittaker could put him in line for a future title shot. With a number of high-profile matchups scheduled in the middleweight division, de Ridder feels that merely winning will not suffice; he must make a convincing impact to advance his standing.
Talking to MMA Junkie, de Ridder said that a victory alone will not guarantee progress—it requires an emphatic finish to draw attention from the UFC brass.
“It all depends on how the fight goes,”
de Ridder stated.
“Like a win is not enough. I need to finish him. I need to finish him early, hopefully spectacularly.”
Known as ‘The Dutch Knight,’ de Ridder has declared that if he successfully overcomes Whittaker without damage, he will be ready to challenge for the middleweight title at UFC 319 on August 16.
Implications of the UFC Abu Dhabi middleweight encounter
The matchup between Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder carries major weight for the UFC middleweight division’s balance of power. Whittaker is a former champion seeking to reassert his dominance, while de Ridder sees the bout as a pivotal opportunity to climb the ranks quickly with a decisive win.
Khamzat Chimaev’s involvement and commentary add intrigue to the division’s narrative, as he prepares for his own title fight but remains engaged in the unfolding competitive landscape. His reminder that Whittaker is a resilient and difficult opponent suggests that de Ridder faces a daunting task.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching UFC Abu Dhabi to see whether de Ridder’s grappling will be enough to overcome Whittaker’s experience and toughness, or if Whittaker will demonstrate that his previous defeat does not define his current abilities. The results will likely shape the middleweight division’s path forward and determine who earns the next title opportunity.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Khamzat Chimaev a millionaire?
A. Currently, Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth is around $3 million. At 30 years old, he is extremely wealthy and a big star in Russia. The MMA star has an undefeated record with 14 wins, 12 by knockout or submission.
Q. Why was Khamzat Chimaev cancelled?
A. On February 11, UFC president Dana White stated that the fight was cancelled again because Chimaev was still experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
Q. Did Khamzat Chimaev ever lose a fight?
A. Khamzat Chimaev’s fight record stands at 14 wins, no losses, and no draws.