Australia’s Robert Whittaker is setting his sights on reclaiming the UFC middleweight title, and he believes Dricus du Plessis could be the man he faces to achieve that goal. With whispers circulating about a potential UFC event in Sydney next February, Whittaker is already preparing for what could be a blockbuster bout.
Speaking to Fox Sports Australia, Whittaker, affectionately known as "Bobby Knuckles," shared his thoughts on the upcoming UFC 305 event in Perth, where du Plessis is set to defend his middleweight title against Israel Adesanya. Whittaker is backing the South African to retain his title, citing du Plessis' recent victory over Sean Strickland as evidence of his prowess in the octagon.
Whittaker, who is scheduled to face Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi this October, is keenly aware of the stakes. A victory against the undefeated Chimaev could catapult him into a title shot, potentially against du Plessis. While Sean Strickland has voiced his desire to be the next title contender, du Plessis has made it clear that the winner of Whittaker vs. Chimaev will be next in line .
Reflecting on his past encounters with both du Plessis and Adesanya, Whittaker acknowledged the challenge ahead. However, he remains confident that a win in Abu Dhabi would make a strong case for his title aspirations. As whispers of a Sydney event grow louder, Australian fans could soon witness Whittaker’s quest for UFC gold on home soil .
This potential showdown in Sydney would not only be a major event for the UFC but also a significant moment for Whittaker as he looks to reclaim his place atop the middleweight division.
- Mitchell Tinley
