De Ridder defeats Whittaker via split decision at UFC Abu Dhabi

Reinier de Ridder continued his winning streak in UFC by defeating Robert Whittaker via split decision at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi. Yesterday’s main event concluded with scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 47-48 from the three judges.

Drama unfolded in the third round when Whittaker dropped De Ridder to the canvas — but the Dutch fighter managed to survive the follow-up attacks.

De Ridder responded with his signature grappling dominance. The final round belonged to the former ONE Championship titleholder — when he successfully pressed Whittaker against the octagon fence.

Since his UFC debut about nine months ago, De Ridder has accumulated four straight victories — an achievement that brings him closer to a middleweight title opportunity.