Robert Whittaker headlined UFC Saudi Arabia with a last-minute showdown against Ikram Aliskerov. He was earlier matched up against Khamzat Chimaev, but the Chechen had to pull out because of illness. Now, the former champion is making his way for his second shot at the title and in the process, has gifted himself a new nickname.
Everybody previously knew Robert Whittaker as ‘The Reaper’. However, in his post-fight octagon interview at UFC Saudi Arabia, Whittaker revealed his new nickname while declaring himself to be the most dangerous matchup in the middleweight division.
I told you I told everybody I’m the boogeyman, I’m the best in the world, and I’m the most dangerous Match up for anyone in the division.
Robert Whittaker in his post-fight octagon interview at UFC Saudi Arabia
Ikram Aliskerov had stepped in on short notice. Their fight did not even last two minutes. The former champion landed a decisive uppercut that knocked Aliskerov down, thus securing himself a first-round knockout victory.
Aliskerov took his first UFC loss in just his third fight in the promotion. The 31-year-old Dagestani will be looking to exact his revenge in the future. Meanwhile, UFC’s new boogeyman has his plans for his next fight.
Robert Whittaker is ready to be the backup fighter at UFC 305
UFC 305 is ready to host the much-awaited clash between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya. This middleweight showdown will decide if the South African champion successfully defends his title or if ‘The Last Stylebender’ becomes a three-time UFC middleweight champion. Adesanya will be back after a long hiatus since he lost his title to Sean Strickland at UFC 293.
Israel Adesanya announces title fight with Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305 (Image via Imago)Robert Whittaker secured his position as the next likely title contender. Now, he is ready to take on either of the two middleweights in the upcoming showdown this August. During his post-fight octagon interview, Daniel Cormier asked Whittaker if he still wanted to be the backup fighter at Perth. Generally, being a backup fighter at a title fight can result in the backup getting a title fight the next time around. Therefore, this might be Whittaker’s way into title contention yet again.
I’m healthy, I’m hearty, let’s go!
Robert Whittaker in his post-fight octagon interview at UFC Saudi Arabia
Even UFC CEO, Dana White said he would love to have Whittaker as the backup fighter for Adesanya vs. Du Plessis. Back in 2022, ‘The Boogeyman’ had lost his title to Israel Adesanya. Currently, Whittaker is on a two-fight win streak after his loss to Du Plessis at UFC 290. If things work out for the former champion, he will get a chance to reclaim his title in just a few weeks.
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