UFC Abu Dhabi’s first event of the year is officially in the books, capped off by a high-stakes middleweight main event between Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder. After an electric co-main event, the spotlight shifted to the Octagon under the dazzling lights of the Etihad Arena. ‘The Reaper’ entered with one clear mission—redemption for his controversial submission loss to Khamzat Chimaev last year, which also unfolded in Abu Dhabi.
From the opening bell, Robert Whittaker came out firing, determined to make a statement. The first two rounds were razor-close, with each fighter likely taking one. But as the bout moved into the third round, fatigue began to creep in. the Aussie tried to keep up the early pressure, while Reinier de Ridder, relying on his composure and fight IQ, began to counter with sharp precision.
Despite Robert Whittaker’s nonstop pressure, de Ridder absorbed the attacks and pushed back with grit. The ground-and-pound exchanges grew more intense as both fighters dug deep. By the final horn, it was anyone’s fight. The judges delivered a split decision: 48-47, 48-47, and 47-48 in favor of Reinier de Ridder. The victory marked Reiner de Ridder’s fourth straight UFC win in just eight months, solidifying his undefeated run in the middleweight division—and even outpacing the hype behind title contender Khamzat Chimaev.
Still, the result sparked backlash among fans. Reddit lit up with debate, with many calling the decision a robbery. One fan wrote, “This should have been a draw. But UFC would rather give it to the guy with hype,“ while another said, “I thought 1,3,4 Whittake.”
MMA: UFC 279-Chimaev vs Holland, Sep 10, 2022 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Khamzat Chimaev red gloves fights Kevin Holland blue gloves during UFC 279 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports, 10.09.2022 20:50:06, 19026318, NPStrans, T-Mobile Arena, Holland, Kevin Holland, MMA PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xJoexCamporealex 19026318
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