Wat-Not Staff
Robert Whittaker Definitively Shuts Down Talks of Trilogy Bout with Israel Adesanya
Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker recently addressed the ongoing speculation regarding a potential trilogy bout with Israel Adesanya, his longtime rival. Whittaker, who has fought Adesanya twice and lost both encounters, made it clear that he has other priorities in his fight career.
Speaking in an interview with Main Event, Whittaker stated, “Izzy needs to fight someone, not me. I’ve fought him twice already… I’m fighting Chimaev, and the winner of that is going to fight for a title. The timelines just don’t work.”
The two fighters have a deep history, with Adesanya dethroning Whittaker at UFC 243 and defeating him again in their rematch at UFC 271. The idea of a third fight between the two has been a talking point for fans, especially with Adesanya’s recent loss to Dricus du Plessis, who also defeated Whittaker at UFC 290.
However, Whittaker seems content with moving forward, focusing on his fight against Khamzat Chimaev and the potential of earning another title shot.
Whittaker’s Focus is on the Chimaev Fight
Whittaker is set to face Khamzat Chimaev next, with the winner earning a shot at the middleweight title.
The fight is highly anticipated, as both fighters are ranked at the top of the division, and a win could lead to either fighter challenging for the belt.
The Reaper is not looking back at his losses against Adesanya and is determined to stay on track with his goal of becoming the UFC middleweight champion again.
“I’m focused on Chimaev right now. That’s the fight that matters,” Whittaker emphasised.
Adesanya’s Future Remains Uncertain
With Adesanya’s next opponent
undecided, Whittaker suggested that the former champion could face Brazilian middleweight Caio Borralho.
Borralho is rising in the ranks, and his dynamic fighting style could make for an exciting bout with Adesanya.
Whittaker’s stance on not fighting Adesanya again is clear.
He believes it’s time for other fighters to take on the challenge, while he focuses on his own path towards reclaiming the title.
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