Robert Whittaker Dominates UFC Fight Night in Saudi Arabia, Eyes Adesanya and Du Plessis Next
In a landmark event for the UFC, Saudi Arabia hosted its first-ever Fight Night, captivating fans with thrilling bouts and high-profile matchups. The main event saw New Zealand’s Robert Whittaker deliver a masterclass performance, securing a first-round knockout against Ikram Aliskerov. The co-main event featured Alexander Volkov emerging victorious over Sergei Pavlovich, adding further excitement to the historic night.
Originally set to face the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev, Whittaker adapted quickly when illness forced Chimaev to withdraw. Ikram Aliskerov stepped in as a late replacement, but Whittaker’s experience and power proved too much for the UFC newcomer. With just over a minute into the first round, Whittaker recognized an opening and unleashed a series of right-handers, followed by a brutal uppercut and heavy lefts, clinching a decisive knockout victory.
After the fight, Whittaker didn’t mince words about his ambitions. “I told everyone I’m the boogieman, I’m the most dangerous man in the world for the division. I’m the best in the world, I’ll take a fight anywhere, any time. I’ll fight anyone,” he declared. Looking ahead, Whittaker expressed a desire to face Israel Adesanya and Dricus du Plessis, adding, “I’m healthy, I’m hearty, let’s go.”
Volkov vs. Pavlovich: A Gripping Co-Main Event
The co-main event featured a heavyweight clash between Sergei Pavlovich and Alexander Volkov. Pavlovich, seeking redemption after a loss to Tom Aspinall at UFC 295, faced a formidable opponent in Volkov, who had a three-fight win streak. The bout was a testament to both fighters’ power and endurance, going the distance with Volkov edging the exchanges.
The fight ended in controversy as tempers flared post-bell, with Pavlovich shoving Volkov. Despite this, Volkov was awarded the decision victory. With Jon Jones still out of action, an interim heavyweight clash with Aspinall appears to be on the horizon for Volkov.
Other Highlights from the UFC Saudi Arabia Night
Volkan Oezdemir vs. Johnny Walker: Oezdemir displayed his striking prowess by rocking Walker with a heavy right-hander, following up with another powerful blow that led to the referee stepping in to stop the fight.
Shara Magomedov vs. Antonio Trocoli: Magomedov faced a tough challenge from Trocoli, briefly appearing in trouble during round two. However, he rebounded in round three, transitioning from leg kicks to head strikes, culminating in a flurry of punches that secured a knockout and his second UFC victory.
Kelvin Gastelum vs. Daniel Rodriguez: Despite missing weight in the run-up, Gastelum showed determination and earned a decision win against Rodriguez, setting the stage for the night’s main events.
Riyadh Season Continues to Impress
This UFC Fight Night is part of the broader Riyadh Season, which has successfully brought high-profile combat sports to Saudi Arabia. Following recent events like the Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk boxing match and the Queensberry vs. Matchroom 5 v 5 extravaganza, the UFC event added another layer of excitement and showcased the growing appetite for combat sports in the region.
With Whittaker’s emphatic win and his sights set on Adesanya and du Plessis, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next for “The Reaper” and the UFC’s continued expansion into new territories.
