Robert Whittaker vs Reinier de Ridder - AI generated fight pick

Robert Whittaker is the more proven and experienced UFC middleweight, having faced the elite of the division for years. He boasts a significant edge in striking defense (60% vs 44%) and takedown defense (81% vs 67%), which is critical against a submission specialist like Reinier de Ridder. Whittaker's ability to keep fights standing and his historically strong defensive wrestling have proven effective against high-level grapplers. While de Ridder has a reach advantage and an excellent submission record, Whittaker's durability, championship experience, and well-rounded skill set give him the edge in a matchup where fighters with strong takedown defense and striking acumen have historically outperformed submission-heavy opponents. De Ridder is still relatively new to the UFC and has not faced the same caliber of competition. Unless de Ridder can consistently get Whittaker down and control him, the Australian's striking volume, speed, and defensive prowess should carry him to victory.