Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker has spoken out regarding rumors that a title fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya could take place at UFC 305 in August.
MMA Fighting quotes Whittaker as saying:
Robert Whittaker
I think Izzy fighting for a title again hurts me [laughs]. But, I understand Dricus has asked for it, right? And he's the champ, gets what he wants. Adesanya is a draw. It seems like the fight that was going to happen, in my opinion. I can see Adesanya just piecing him up for five rounds, but in saying that Dricus is tough as nails and he's awkward.
Adesanya, 34, last stepped into the octagon in September 2023 at UFC 293, losing to Sean Strickland via unanimous decision. He has 24 wins and three losses on his record.
Du Plessis, 30, last fought in January 2024 at UFC 297, defeating Sean Strickland by split decision. He has 21 wins and two losses on his record.
Whittaker will headline UFC Saudi Arabia on June 22 in Saudi Arabia, stepping into the octagon for a fight against Khamzat Chimaev.
