Robert Whittaker explains why Israel Adesanya is a stylistically tougher opponent for him than Alex Pereira.
Whittaker spoke with FOX Sports Australia about the new middleweight champion and explained how his approach would be different than the approach to his fights with Israel Adesanya:
“I think stylistically he’s a better matchup for me. He’s definitely much more straight and he doesn’t lean back and fade away as well as Izzy [Adesanya] does cause Izzy is a much more defensive striker. So I think technically it’s a much better fight for me.”
The former UFC middleweight champion gave his thoughts on ‘Poatan’s come-from-behind win against Adesanya. He also spoke about the size and strength advantages that the Brazilian had:
“They’re two very big guys the both of them. But I think Alex (Pereira) looks big even against Izzy and Izzy’s a big dude. So size and reach and length is definitely a factor you need to consider moving into a fight against them.”
It’s no secret that Whittaker would be at a disadvantage in terms of size. Prior to UFC 281, Pereira’s coaches revealed that he cuts a significant amount of weight to make the 185-pound middleweight limit, which is why he looks much larger in the octagon.
Check out the full interview:
What’s next for Robert Whittaker?
Robert Whittaker will have his hands full as he is scheduled to fight Paulo Costa at UFC 284 in Perth, Australia.
The former UFC middleweight champion will have the home crowd advantage at UFC 284, which is also a bout that could have title implications. Now that there is a new champion in the division, Whittaker has an opportunity to get another title opportunity if he defeats Costa.
Since Alex Pereira was fast-tracked to the title opportunity, there are plenty of potential challengers because he hasn’t fought any of the top contenders at 185 lbs except for Israel Adesanya.
It was recently reported that the former champion received a 60-day medical suspension due to his knockout loss. If his coaches feel that it’s in his best interest to take a longer layoff, ‘Poatan’ could perhaps defend his title against Robert Whittaker should ‘The Reaper’ defeat Costa without absorbing too much damage.
Pereira’s age could also be a factor in his willingness to remain active as he is 35 years old and is at a point in his career where he’s in a position to maximize his value as a former kickboxing champion and current UFC middleweight champion.
