Rising UFC middleweight contender Reinier de Ridder has declared a dramatic shift in his MMA approach ahead of his high-profile bout with former champion Robert Whittaker.
“I’m a striker now,” de Ridder proclaimed whimsically in a recent interview with HomeofFight. “F**k Jiu-Jitsu.”
The statement represents a stunning departure for the Dutch star, who built his reputation on elite grappling skills. De Ridder, who recently stunned the MMA world by handing prospect Bo Nickal his first professional loss, appears to be evolving his game as he prepares for the biggest challenge of his UFC career.
Set to face Whittaker in the main event on July 26 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, de Ridder seems confident in his striking abilities against the technically polished former champion.
When asked about his chances against the Australian veteran, de Ridder offered a strategic assessment: “I think if I can put pressure on him like I did to Bo, I think I’ll make a good chance.”
The Dutchman even predicted he would finish Whittaker with strikes, doubling down on his newfound striking identity.
This main event represents a critical juncture for both. Whittaker (27-8-0), one of UFC’s most respected middleweights with notable victories over elite competitors like Yoel Romero and Jared Cannonier, is looking to bounce back into the win column. Meanwhile, de Ridder (20-2-0) continues his rapid ascent through the division after joining the promotion in late 2023.
The five-round headline bout marks de Ridder’s first UFC main event, adding another layer of pressure as he steps into the octagon against one of the division’s most battle-tested veterans.
MMA analysts are divided on whether de Ridder’s apparent striking focus represents genuine strategic evolution or simply misdirection. Whittaker, known for his technical striking and takedown defense, presents a formidable challenge for any opponent regardless of their approach.
The July 26 card also features compelling matchups including Nikita Krylov vs. Bogdan Guskov in the light heavyweight division and a flyweight contest between Ramazan Temirov and Asu Almabayev.
