Reinier de Ridder downplays Robert Whittaker and predicts how he will win at UFC Abu Dhabi: 'spectacular form'

Ridder's Reinier after victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction X/UFC

Ridder's Reinier e Robert whittaker measure forces in the main fight of the UFC Abu Dhabi, next Saturday (26), in the United Arab Emirates. The Dutchman is so confident of victory over the former champion that he already foresees the method of having his arm raised, aiming to shortcut the path to the dispute for the title of the middleweight division (up to 83,9 kg.)

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“One victory is not enough. I need to finish it (Robert whittaker). I need to finish it early, hopefully spectacularly. …That would be perfect, or maybe Khamzat (Chimaev) backs out at the last minute and they call me. We'll see,” De Ridder said in an interview with the American website. 'MMA Junkies'.

Reinier De Ridder predicts UFC 319 outcome

The Dutch Ridder's Reinier bet on Dricus Du Plessis as a favorite in UFC 319, based on the experience he had training with both athletes. In his view, Khamzat Shimaev will not be able to get a quick finish, while Du Plessis tends to grow in the final rounds, which could be decisive for a narrow victory.

"I'm still leaning toward Dricus because of the experience I've had training with both of them. I just don't see Khamzat finishing him early, and I see Dricus growing in the third, fourth, and fifth rounds. I see Dricus narrowly winning," he said. Ridder's Reinier in an interview with 'Submission Radio'.

De Ridder faces Robert Whittaker at UFC Abu Dhabi

Robert whittaker e Ridder's Reinier are the main attraction of the UFC Abu Dhabi. Photo: Montagerm Super Lutas

Before thinking about filling a possible vacancy left by Khamzat Shimaev, Ridder's Reinier has a more urgent commitment ahead. The Dutchman faces Robert whittaker in the main fight of UFC Abu Dhabi, next Saturday (26).

Known for his successful career in Glory, De Ridder made his UFC debut with an immediate impact. In his first fight, he submitted Gerald meerschaert still in the first round. Next, he faced Kevin holland and repeated the feat, winning again by submission in the opening round. In his most recent performance, knocked out the promising BoNickal, securing his place in the organization's middleweight rankings.