Overview

• The UFC on ABC main event on July 26 at Etihad Arena will see former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker face former ONE simultaneous two-division titlist Reinier de Ridder.
• De Ridder has compiled a flawless 4–0 UFC record and intends to press Whittaker early, hand-fighting and hunting a choke finish.
• Whittaker returns to Abu Dhabi aiming to overcome lingering effects from the facial injury he suffered against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308.
• Chimaev has warned de Ridder that Whittaker’s striking acumen and resilience should not be underestimated.
• UFC president Dana White said he won’t cover Whittaker’s jaw treatment expenses a second time.