Robert Whittaker continues to shine in the UFC’s middleweight division.
The former champion showcased his skills by delivering a powerful first-round knockout to Ikram Aliskerov, who was a replacement opponent at the UFC event in Saudi Arabia. Whittaker’s victory improved his record to an impressive 26-7, halting Aliskerov’s seven-fight win streak.
Whittaker demonstrated his dominance early in the fight, stunning Aliskerov with a well-placed right hand before finishing him off with a devastating uppercut.
Originally set to face Khamzat Chimaev, Whittaker’s victory over Aliskerov solidifies his position as a top contender in the division. Despite several high-profile withdrawals from UFC main events, Whittaker’s performance stood out as a testament to his skill and determination.
Unlike many former champions who struggle after losing their title, Whittaker has maintained his elite status in the middleweight division. With notable wins over top-10 opponents and only losses to current champion Dricus du Plessis and former champ Israel Adesanya since 2014, Whittaker’s consistency is commendable.
Looking ahead, Whittaker has multiple options for his next move in the division. While a rematch with du Plessis remains a priority, a potential matchup against former champion Sean Strickland could also pique interest. Regardless of his next opponent, Whittaker’s skill set and experience make him a formidable challenge for anyone in the division.