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The UFC 308 co-main event between Khamzat Chimaev and Robert Whittaker has drawn notable attention from fans. Predictions vary, but most lean toward Chimaev, who remains undefeated in his 17 UFC fights; a remarkable record for the 30-year-old.
On the other hand, Robert Whittaker holds a record of 27-7, and given his skills, many possible scenarios could happen in this matchup. The co-main event will take place in Abu Dhabi at the Etihad Arena on Saturday.
It's still unclear who the winner will face next, but they could likely meet the winner of the bout between Du Plessis and Strickland.
UFC star Israel Adesanya commented on the matchup, suggesting that Chimaev will aim to finish the fight in the first two rounds. The former UFC champion respects Whittaker, warning that no one should underestimate him. Adesanya believes Whittaker has the potential to win, but stresses the importance of Rob enduring the early stages and showing his strength.
“I just think, Khamzat, if he’s gonna win he’s gotta do it in the first or second round with a submission. I don’t see him dropping Rob,” Adesanya said, as quoted by Bloody Ellbow.
“Rob is a guy not to be * with. Look at his last fight, hopefully, people will remember who he is now. I think Rob will do it again, definitely not as early, I don’t think so.
I just think he’ll catch him later on. But he has to weather the storm, he has to survive until he can’t… I’m gonna go Rob with this one with the late finish."
The Nigerian fighter believes that Rob Whittaker will settle the fight in the fourth round.
Khamzat Chimaev talks about his opponent
Chimaev expressed confidence ahead of his fight against Whittaker during the UFC 308 media day, suggesting that Whittaker knows what it feels like to lose, while he himself remains undefeated and ready for victory. He emphasized that no one has been able to stop his takedowns, indicating that he doesn’t expect Whittaker to be any different in that regard.
The Chechen fighter has shown throughout his career that there is no opponent who can stop him. While some expect that it’s finally time for someone to break Chimaev's impressive streak, not everyone is convinced that Rob Whittaker is the right man for the job. Khamzat has displayed confidence and seems to have little respect for his opponent, wanting to prove that he is not the one who can stop him. This could be a great motivation for Whittaker.
Chimaev also mentioned his experience against Kamaru Usman, a highly regarded champion, stressing that he successfully took him down and dominated him in their rounds. He questioned what would be different facing a striker like Whittaker, who comes from a taekwondo and karate background.
In the match between Khamzat Chimaev and Kamaru Usman, Chimaev won in the third round. Predictions were mixed; many believed Usman would have the advantage due to his experience and title, while others had faith in Chimaev's youth and aggression.
Chimaev quickly took control, using his grappling skills to dominate, while Usman tried to adjust to his style. After several exciting exchanges, Chimaev found a way to secure the finish.
Khamzat Chimaev vs Kamaru Usman
In October 2023, Khamzat Chimaev justified his status as the favorite by defeating Kamaru Usman, the former welterweight champion, by unanimous decision. Usman accepted the fight just about ten days prior. From the very beginning, Khamzat aimed for takedowns. Although Usman defended well, Chimaev managed to take his back and brought him down towards the end of the first minute.
At the start of the third round, Khamzat went for another takedown, but this time Usman read his move and avoided it. The fight opened up, with Usman becoming aggressive. Despite accepting the fight on short notice, he seemed to be in much better condition. Two judges scored the fight 29-27 in favor of Chimaev, while one scored it 28-28. Thus, the Chechen fighter celebrated a majority decision victory and earned a shot at the title.
Robert Whittaker on his opponent
Robert Whittaker commented on his next opponent by acknowledging his impressive skills, stating that beneath all the hype, the fighter is very dangerous. He emphasized that his opponent has a high-level wrestling game that he has effectively integrated into mixed martial arts, along with knockout power and a strong chin, making him a tough opponent for anyone.
Whittaker expressed that he thrives in the underdog role, viewing it as a position of strength. He believes that facing difficult challenges improves him, and he sees this fight against a fighter with an undefeated record as an important test. He is optimistic about how much he will grow and improve as a fighter after this matchup.
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