UFC star Israel Adesanya praises Robert Whittaker for his recent wins. Both fighters aim for the middleweight title as Adesanya prepares to face Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305.
- Adesanya acknowledges Whittaker’s recent wins and their shared history.
- A respect dispute fuels the upcoming fight between Adesanya and Du Plessis at UFC 305.
- Whittaker aims for a title shot after his consecutive wins.
Israel Adesanya Praises Robert Whittaker’s Recent Victories
Israel Adesanya, a top UFC fighter, has shown respect for his former rival, Robert Whittaker, after Whittaker’s recent wins.
Adesanya (24-3 MMA, 13-3 UFC) took the middleweight champion title from Whittaker (26-7 MMA, 17-5 UFC) at UFC 243 and won again in their rematch at UFC 271.
Despite their rivalry, Adesanya praises Whittaker for his determination and success in the ring.
Adesanya said in an interview, “I was fighting the local hero, Rob Whittaker, who just actually had a great win a week or two weeks ago, but I was fighting him here and defending my belt for the first time on enemy territory… It was beautiful. Robbie’s that guy. We fought twice. We always have history, but it was good to see him back in the win column, and he’s coming for me, so I’ve got to stay ready.”
Whittaker’s Knockout Streak Reignites Title Hopes
Robert Whittaker, known as “The Reaper,” is working hard to become the middleweight title again.
He is on a two-fight winning streak, having defeated Paulo Costa and Ikram Aliskerov.
His recent knockout of Aliskerov in Saudi Arabia showed his skill and determination to return to the top.
Adesanya admired Whittaker’s wins and appreciated his comeback.
Whittaker’s victories have put him back into the title race, and he aims to be the backup fighter for the Adesanya vs. Du Plessis fight at UFC 305.
Adesanya & Du Plessis Conflict Details
As Adesanya prepares for his fight against Dricus Du Plessis (21-2 MMA, 7-0 UFC) at UFC 305, a story of respect and heritage comes up.
Du Plessis has claimed to be the first true African UFC champion, which upset Adesanya. Adesanya, Francis Ngannou, and Kamaru Usman have helped open doors for African fighters in the UFC.
Adesanya talked about this during his TV appearance, stressing the need to honor those who came before.
“For me, you have to honor the guys who came before you. He’s the guy saying, ‘I’m the real African champion,’ but look, you wouldn’t have been able to do what you’re doing at home in South Africa if myself, Francis Ngannou and Kamaru (Usman) didn’t pave the way for you. So you have to respect your elders, and I’ll make sure I do that to him.”
What’s Next for Robert Whittaker?
Robert Whittaker’s knockout win against Ikram Aliskerov has brought him back into the spotlight.
He has hinted at wanting to be the backup fighter for the Adesanya vs. Du Plessis title fight, but his future in the UFC looks promising.
He might need another fight to secure a title shot, but his recent performances have certainly made him a strong contender.
