UFC On ABC is going to be a fantastic card, and the main event features a matchup between Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder. The UFC on ABC prediction for this fight is Robert Whittaker, but it is expected to be a close fight.
Robert Whittaker is making his comeback from the major loss to Khamzat Chimaev, not only a loss, but Robert also broke his jaw in this fight. So this fight against Reinier de Ridder is going to be an important fight for Robert Whittaker.
On the other hand, Reinier de Ridder is also coming with a huge confidence after beating rising star Bo Nickal. If he beats Robert Whittaker, he will be in the title contender queue.
UFC On ABC Prediction: Robert Whittaker vs Reinier de Ridder
| Attribute | Robert Whittaker | Reinier de Ridder | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Striking | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | Whittaker’s karate-based striking is precise and high-volume, as seen in his KO of Aliskerov. De Ridder’s kickboxing is solid but less refined. |
| Grappling | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | De Ridder’s elite jiu-jitsu (13 submission wins) dominates. Whittaker’s 80% takedown defense is strong but faces a tough test. |
| Cardio | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | Both have excellent stamina. Whittaker’s pace and de Ridder’s late finishes (e.g., Nickal) make this even. |
| Chin/Durability | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | Whittaker’s chin held up against Adesanya but cracked vs. Chimaev. De Ridder’s never been KO’d, giving him an edge. |
| Fight IQ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | Whittaker’s tactical fights against top-tier opponents match de Ridder’s adaptive pressure, as shown vs. Nickal. |
| Experience | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | Whittaker’s 23 UFC fights and former title outweigh de Ridder’s 3 UFC bouts, despite ONE Championship success. |
| Momentum | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | De Ridder’s elite jiu-jitsu (13 submission wins) dominates. Whittaker’s 80% takedown defense is strong, but he faces a tough test. |
| Home Advantage | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | Whittaker’s prior UAE fights give a slight edge over de Ridder, who’s new to Abu Dhabi. |
| Overall Prediction | 60% | 40% | Whittaker likely wins by decision via striking and takedown defense, but de Ridder’s grappling could steal it. |
Conclusion
- Whittaker’s Key: Keep the fight standing, use striking volume, and rely on takedown defense.
- De Ridder’s Key: Close distance, secure takedowns, and dominate with jiu-jitsu.
- X-Factor: Whittaker’s jaw injury recovery vs. de Ridder’s ability to handle elite striking.
- Upset Watch: De Ridder’s momentum and grappling make a submission win possible.
- Stakes: Whittaker aims to stay in title contention; de Ridder could leap into the title picture.
- Winner: Robert Whittaker chance 60% and Reinier de Ridder chance is 40%.