Robert Whittaker vs. Reinier de Ridder: UFC Fight Night Picks
The UFC returns this weekend following a thrilling UFC 318 card that saw Max Holloway issue Dustin Poirier a loss heading into retirement. This weekend, the promotion packs its bags and heads abroad to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates for an afternoon card that's loaded with fun fights. Below, I'll dive into three of the bouts, including the main event between Robert Whittaker (No. 5) and Reinier de Ridder (No. 12), from a sports betting perspective and let you know my top three UFC Fight Night picks for Robert Whittaker vs. Reinier de Ridder.
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UFC Fight Night Picks: Robert Whittaker vs. Reinier de Ridder
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Robert Whittaker (-162) vs. Reinier de Ridder (+136)
All roads lead to a main event showdown in the Middleweight Division between Robert Whittaker (No. 5) and Reinier de Ridder (No. 12). Whittaker enters the contest at 27-8-0, while his counterpart is 20-2-0 and a perfect 3-0 in the UFC.
The Dutch Knight already has a few notable victories under his belt in the UFC, as he's taken down Gerald Meerschaert (SUB - Arm Triangle), Kevin Holland (SUB - Rear Naked Choke) and Bo Nickal (KO/TKO - Knee). Will he slay another household name on Saturday afternoon in Abu Dhabi?
It's possible, but I believe it's more likely that Whittaker stonewalls the 34-year-old submission artist. Whittaker is about as battle-tested as they come, and he's discarded some of the division's best across the last 11 years en route to his current 15-4 run. I believe Whittaker, who boasts an 81% defense rate and black belts in three different disciplines, has the defensive capabilities to avoid an early exit against de Riddier and his 90% finish rate (13 submissions and five knockouts in 20 professional wins).
I'm willing to lay the juice with the Aussie, but I will note that this is nearing the top of my range. If we saw de Ridder start paying out +150 or more, I think there's a case to be made for him as an underdog. Nevertheless, at this price, I like Whittaker to bounce back from the Khamzat Chimaev loss (SUB - Rear Naked Choke) and take care of business.
Bet: Robert Whittaker Moneyline (-162)