Robert Whittaker will face off against Reinier De Ridder at Etihad Arena.
Abu Dhabi never falls short when it comes to delivering entertainment all year round. And this time, the capital is gearing up for a sports extravaganza packed with punches, choke slams, and adrenaline-pumping action. Get your gloves on because UFC Fight Night returns to Abu Dhabi this July.
Taking place on Saturday, 26 July, at Etihad Arena, UFC Fight Night will bring some of the biggest names from the world of MMA to the ring. Headlining the action-packed card is a middleweight showdown between former champion and No.5-ranked Robert Whittaker and rising contender Reinier de Ridder.
Fighting out of New South Wales, Australia, Whittaker is a fan favourite known for his tactical precision and resilience. With career-defining victories over the likes of Yoel Romero, Jared Cannonier, and Marvin Vettori, the Aussie veteran is aiming to bounce back in style.
Standing in his way is Dutch grappling phenom Reinier de Ridder, who has quickly made waves since joining the UFC in late 2024. After handing Bo Nickal his first professional defeat, de Ridder is eyeing his biggest win yet against a former champion.
But the fireworks don’t stop there. The undercard packs a punch and will see Nikita Krylov take on Bogdan Guskov in a high-stakes light heavyweight clash. In the flyweight division, Ramazan Temirov faces off with Asu Almabayev in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Elsewhere. Ibo Aslan of Türkiye collides with American brawler Billy Elekana in another light heavyweight contest with knockout potential.
Last year, UFC Fight Night saw Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov come face-to-face for the title. Cory Sandhagen, popularly known as The Sandman, has frequented Abu Dhabi. However, it was Russian heavyweight Umar Nurmagomedov’s debut in the capital. He brought his undefeated record to Abu Dhabi and won the title in 2024.
Tickets for UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs De Ridder are now available via etihadarena.ae and ticketmaster.ae. For fans looking to elevate their experience, VIP packages are available through UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider, On Location. Expect premium seating, backstage access, hospitality perks, and the chance to meet UFC athletes. Visit UFCVIP.com for full details.
GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for more information.