The decision was a split set of 48-47 scorecards. The event took place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. The bout was exciting and competitive throughout. De Ridder's jab and step-knee were successful throughout the bout.

Reinier de Ridder just picked up the biggest win of his career as he outlasted former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker, winning a razor close split decision in the main event of UFC Abu Dhabi to move to 4-0 in the UFC.

Reinier de Ridder picked up the biggest win of his career on Saturday when he took a hard-fought split decision over former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker in the main event of UFC Fight Night from Abu Dhabi.