Robert Whittaker is dealing with emotional scars after losing to Khamzat Chimaev last October. A victory over Reinier de Ridder at the UFC Abu Dhabi main event would be a great way to move forward. However, the Dutchman shouldn’t be underestimated.
Bookies underestimated him last May against Bo Nickal, but we didn’t. We predicted his win, and he delivered at +235 odds. Fast-forward to July 2025, and he’s seen as an underdog again with +139 odds. Should you back him? Let’s find out.
## Robert Whittaker vs. Reinier de Ridder Odds
| Moneyline | Odds |
|——————–|——|
| Robert Whittaker | -159 |
| Reinier de Ridder | +139 |
## When, Where, and How to Watch?
– **Place**: Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE
– **Date**: Saturday, July 26, 2025
– **Time**: 9:00 p.m. ET
– **How to Watch**: ABC
## Should Robert Whittaker be the Betting Favorite?
Robert Whittaker is 26-8, with nearly all of his losses against champions or those who became champions. For instance, he lost twice to Israel Adesanya for the UFC Middleweight title. He also lost to Dricus du Plessis, who later became the champ. His latest bout was a loss to Khamzat Chimaev, who will contest for the title later this summer.
The loss to Khamzat was both physical and emotional for Whittaker. The Chechen fighter defeated him with a face crank submission, breaking his jaw in the process. Whether it was Khamzat’s strength or an existing injury remains a question.
We suspect Bobby’s jaw is now his weakness, and the question is whether RDR can exploit it.
## Reinier de Ridder Ready for Another Upset Win
Reinier de Ridder is 20-2 in his professional MMA career, mainly in ONE Championship. Since joining the UFC, he’s 3-0, with victories over Gerald Meerschaert (submission), Kevin Holland (submission), and Bo Nickal (TKO).
The win over Bo Nickal shocked many UFC fans, but we recognized RDR’s potential. He’s a top grappler in the division, landing numerous takedowns in almost every fight.
Against Nickal, he didn’t need takedowns, beating him with powerful strikes instead. This TKO win showed his striking prowess, making him a complete fighter.
He’s technically skilled and quite tall for a middleweight, standing at 6’4 with a 78’’ reach – four inches taller than Whittaker, with a five-inch reach advantage.
## Robert Whittaker vs. Reinier de Ridder Prediction
We believe RDR will likely secure another upset. Chimaev showed how to defeat Bobby Knuckles, and we think RDR will follow that path.
Pick: [Reiner de Ridder](https://www.gamblingnews.com/visit/betonline-sportsbook/)
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- Source: SCCGManagement.com