Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker has a clear vision for the conclusion of his decorated fighting career.
Known as “The Reaper,” Whittaker is currently slated to face Reinier de Ridder in the main event of UFC Abu Dhabi on July 26. This bout is a significant matchup within the middleweight division, featuring the former champion against de Ridder, who has maintained an impressive 3-0 record since joining the promotion in 2024.
Should Whittaker emerge victorious against de Ridder, he acknowledges that he is likely still several fights away from earning another shot at the title. Speaking to FOX Sports Australia, Whittaker detailed his ideal scenario for retiring from the sport.
“Four fights,” Whittaker stated, outlining his target for the remainder of his career. “I see the light at the end of the tunnel. I want four more, that’s me. I see the stepping stones needed to do what I want to do. Four fights gets me into that title shot, gets me into a position to finish on top, to have that fairy tale ending. I’m working towards it.”
Although Whittaker has experienced defeats against the division`s elite in recent years, he has also successfully navigated challenges from aspiring contenders aiming to build their name. Prior to his loss to Khamzat Chimaev, Whittaker secured consecutive wins over Ikram Aliskerov and Paulo Costa. His recent run of 6 wins and 3 losses includes notable victories against formidable opponents like Marvin Vettori, Kelvin Gastelum, Jared Cannonier, and Darren Till.
Khamzat Chimaev is scheduled to face current champion Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 on August 16, a fight between the two individuals who most recently defeated Whittaker. Whittaker expressed interest in potentially rematching both fighters but understands the competitive landscape and the growing list of contenders he must first overcome.
Commenting on the swift loss to Chimaev, during which he sustained a dental injury from a choke, Whittaker indicated that he is not disheartened. He feels the fight ended too quickly to allow him to demonstrate his full capabilities.
“He was just better than me on the day,” Whittaker said. “I could look to make as many excuses under the sun as I want, but truth is I’ve got the L now, so all you can do really is just throw yourself back in the gym, get back on the horse. Because the fight went the way it was, I’m not disheartened in my own skill set particularly much. I’m not disheartened in my striking ability, my knockout ability, so I go into this fight still with a lot of confidence that I can do what it is that I do… Striking’s my game. He’s going to look to try and take me down and I’m not going to let him.”
For now, his complete focus remains on the upcoming challenge presented by Reinier de Ridder.
