The five-round battle was a clash of contrasting styles: Whittaker’s speed and striking against De Ridder’s grappling and ground control. Whittaker dropped his rival with a powerful right hand in the third round, but De Ridder showed resilience, recovering quickly and pressing forward. With both men exchanging takedowns and heavy blows, the fight had fans on the edge of their seats until the final bell.

Once the bout reached the scorecards, the judges were split. Two sided with De Ridder, while one gave the nod to Whittaker. The outcome immediately sparked debate among fans online, with many questioning whether Whittaker’s striking should have been enough. Still, De Ridder’s ability to impose his grappling ultimately earned him the win, marking one of the most significant victories of his career.

Beyond the headline fight, the atmosphere in Etihad Arena was electric, with fans from across the region and beyond filling the venue. The co-main event saw Petr Yan defeat Marcus McGhee by unanimous decision, adding more fuel to the night’s excitement. With world-class production, passionate crowds, and competitive matchups, Abu Dhabi once again showcased its ability to host MMA nights that rival any global stage.

By defeating a former champion, De Ridder instantly elevated his status as a serious contender in the UFC middleweight division. The win positions him closer to title contention and highlights his ability to compete against elite opponents. Whittaker, despite the loss, proved his toughness and remains one of the most respected fighters in the division. Both men left the cage with their reputations intact, but De Ridder walked away with the momentum that could define the next chapter of his career.