Since moving as much as middleweight, ‘The Reaper’ has never found himself coming off of back-to-back losses until now.
Robert Whittaker was beaten by Reinier de Ridder within the most important event of UFC Abu Dhabi this past weekend.
The matchup got here right all the way down to the wire with an incredibly close fourth round seemingly being the pivotal moment in deciding the split result.
While some fans argued that Whittaker deserved the win more, the fight truly could have gone either way, with media scores also being split right down the center.
At 34 years old with 35 pro fights under his belt, this defeat led to some questions regarding where the previous champion currently stands within the middleweight division.
Robert Whittaker reflects on his loss to Reinier de Ridder, says it isn’t all negative
Now just a few days faraway from Saturday night in Abu Dhabi, Robert Whittaker posted a video on social media to share his thoughts on the fight and the way he’s feeling within the aftermath.
‘The Reaper’ has at all times been an incredibly respectful competitor who often appears to be in high spirits shortly after his setbacks.
With that in mind, it’s not surprising to listen to Whittaker say that he’s still motivated to correct some mistakes and get back to work within the near future.
“Okay everybody, it’s a pair days because the fight, thought I’d provide you with all an update. I’m upset but I’m not disheartened. There have been plenty of things I liked in regards to the fight, there have been plenty of things I didn’t, but I’m gonna take all of it, head back to the gym, sit with the team, pick it apart after which get back on the horse.”
Whittaker also gave credit to Reinier de Ridder, who massively relied on his strongest skillsets to earn the most important win of his profession up to now.
“Congratulations to de Ridder. He had a specific game plan, he executed it well, it got him the win. It’s what it is typically.”
Robert Whittaker says he desires to return in Australia having not fought there in six years
The ultimate point made by Robert Whittaker in his social media video was about his hopes for a return to the Octagon.
While he didn’t give a time-frame or opponent, he did state that he would favor to have his comeback fight in Australia.
‘The Reaper’ last competed in front of his fans when he suffered a loss to Israel Adesanya of their huge middleweight title fight at UFC 243 in 2019.
“This isn’t the top of Robert Whittaker, that is just one other learning curve. One other speed bump. I’m gonna spend a while with my family. Just rest and get well just a little bit after which hopefully get back on an Australian card. It’s been some time and truthfully, I’m eager for it. It’s been some time since I’ve fought in Australia and I’d like to fight here again. It’s time, but that’s me. Thanks everybody, tuning out.”
The UFC is about to return to Perth within the near future but September 27 could be far too quick of a turnaround for Whittaker, which suggests that he could also be waiting until next yr.