Robert Whittaker Targets Magomed Ankalaev for December Bout After TKO Win in 205-Pound Debut
Updated
Updated · MMA Sucka · Aug 5
Robert Whittaker Targets Magomed Ankalaev for December Bout After TKO Win in 205-Pound Debut
3 articles · Updated · MMA Sucka · Aug 5
Summary
Robert Whittaker said on Michael Bisping’s podcast that Magomed Ankalaev is his preferred next opponent, adding that a December fight and win could push him into a light heavyweight title shot.
The 35-year-old is coming off a strong 205-pound debut at UFC 329 on July 11, where he stopped Nikita Krylov by third-round TKO and began what he called a new climb through the rankings.
Whittaker also named Jan Blachowicz and Bogdan Guskov as options, but suggested their recent TKO losses — Blachowicz on August 1 and Guskov on July 25 — have cooled those matchups.
A Paulo Costa rematch drew little enthusiasm from Whittaker, who beat the Brazilian by unanimous decision at middleweight in 2024 and said there are more compelling opponents at 205.
Ranked No. 11 at light heavyweight, Whittaker said he would rather avoid fighting CKB teammates Carlos Ulberg and Navajo Stirling unless title stakes eventually force that conversation.