In the aftermath of an explosive performance at UFC Saudi Arabia, an MMA legend has claimed Robert Whittaker doesn’t receive the respect his spectacular career deserves.
The Australian produced an epic victory on Saturday evening to propel himself right back into the middleweight title picture.
Daniel Cormier believes Robert Whittaker is underappreciated
After sacrificing blood, sweat and tears in the gym, in preparation for Khamzat Chimaev, Robert Whittaker received the news that the Swedish sensation had fallen ill and thus wouldn’t be able to make that all-important walk to the cage.
Consequently, the UFC drafted in dangerous Dagestani, Ikram Aliskerov, forcing the Aussie to disregard the work he’d done throughout training camp and adapt his tactics to a new opponent.
Showcasing remarkable professionalism, ‘Bobby Knuckles’ walked to the cage and performed as if he’d been studying the Russian for years. After quickly downloading the data, Whittaker unleashed a thunderous right hand followed by a devastating uppercut to send his opponent spiraling toward the canvas.
The beautiful display of mixed martial arts reminded the world exactly what he’s capable of, with many keen to see ‘The Reaper’ receive his shot at redemption against UFC 305 headliners, Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya.
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During his career, the popular fighter has shied away from verbal exchanges, choosing instead to do his talking in the cage. And perhaps that’s why he’s not held in the regard purists think he should be. But Daniel Cormier is insistent that fans around the globe, ought to start putting some respect on the former champion’s name.
In a video he posted to his YouTube channel, ‘DC’ explained: “There are a number of reasons why you’d say ‘no’, but Robert Whittaker, he just doesn’t say ‘no’. Tonight, he showed why he has long been one of the best middleweights in the world.
“A lot of times, boisterous fighters and people who talk a lot, they get so much respect in the world of fighting. In reality, a guy like Robert Whittaker should be the one getting the ultimate respect.
“I know that he is beloved by so many, but I still feel that truthfully, Robert Whittaker is underrated. I don’t think he gets the credit that he deserves for what he does.
“This is a man that has two wins over Yoel Romero. This man has fought Israel Adesanya twice. This man has beaten Derek Brunson. He has beaten so many great fighters. On his title run, he was the best. If you are talking about a guy who truly does live the martial artist lifestyle, you’re speaking about Rob.”
With legends like Cormier singing his praises and an army of fans behind him, Whittaker is more than ready to reclaim his championship belt.
Robert Whittaker wants revenge over Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya
With a plethora of fantastic victories, the 33-year-old has proved himself as one of the greatest middleweights the sport has ever seen. But to put the rubber stamp on an epic career, he’d love to lift the strap above his head for a second time.
On August 18, at UFC 305 in the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, Du Plessis and Adesanya will go to war for the 185-pound crown. While the world can’t wait for the rivals to settle their grudge once and for all, no one will be paying closer attention than Whittaker.
The formidable fighter will undoubtedly be in the arena, either watching from cageside or possibly even setting foot in the octagon himself if he’s called to be the backup fighter.
Ultimately, whether his shot at the belt comes in two months, or a little way down the line, a title fight is inevitable, with the sporting titan desperate to settle the score with both men.
At the UFC Saudi Arabia post-fight press conference, he revealed why getting another chance at gold means so much to him. And it’s about much more than grudges and belts.
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