Robert Whittaker envisions a specific way to conclude his notable fighting career.
Known as “The Reaper,” Whittaker is set to headline UFC Abu Dhabi on July 26 against Reinier de Ridder. This is a crucial middleweight bout, featuring Whittaker, a former UFC champion, against de Ridder, who holds a 3-0 record since joining the UFC in 2024.
Even with a win over de Ridder, Whittaker acknowledges he`s still a few fights away from another title opportunity. In an interview with FOX Sports Australia, he detailed his ideal plan for retirement.
“Four more fights,” Whittaker stated. “I can see the finish line. I aim for four more bouts. I understand the steps required to achieve my goals. Four fights should position me for a title shot, allowing me to retire at the top – a real fairy tale ending. That`s what I`m focused on.”
While he hasn`t reached the absolute peak recently, Whittaker has successfully turned away several rising contenders looking to build their careers by beating him. Before his loss to Khamzat Chimaev, he secured consecutive wins against Ikram Aliskerov and Paulo Costa. His recent 6-3 record includes victories over notable opponents like Marvin Vettori, Kelvin Gastelum, Jared Cannonier, and Darren Till.
Chimaev is scheduled to face champion Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 on August 16. This fight features the two men who have most recently defeated Whittaker. Whittaker expressed interest in rematches with both, but recognizes the increasing number of contenders he must face first.
“The list of potential opponents is growing,” Whittaker commented with a laugh. “I`m actively working. Reinier de Ridder is my current focus.”
During the fight against Chimaev, Whittaker sustained a serious injury when a choke hold resulted in his teeth being dislodged.
He isn`t discouraged by that quick loss, feeling he didn`t have the chance to show his full potential after suffering the injury early.
“He was simply the better fighter that day,” Whittaker admitted. “I could offer countless excuses, but the reality is I took the loss. All you can do is return to the gym and move forward. The manner of that fight hasn`t significantly shaken my confidence in my skills. I`m not discouraged about my striking or knockout power, so I`m approaching this next fight with strong belief in what I can do. As I showed against Ikram Aliskerov and Paulo Costa before the Chimaev fight, striking is my primary weapon. Reinier de Ridder will likely aim for takedowns, but I intend to prevent that.”
