How Did Robert Whittaker Become A Champion?

UFC Middleweight Robert Whittaker has had a storied climb to the top throughout his tenure as a UFC fighter. ‘The Reaper’ has spoken out candidly that his ascent to being the undisputed champion of the world has not come easily. His sacrifices and overall journey have further bolstered his legacy that has helped to endear him to his legions of fans.

Whittaker primarily knew he wanted to actualize his dream to be world champion following his stint on TUF. The six-figure contract went a long way in solidifying his goal that he would eventually make a reality. Not to mention his rise to the top came with complications that are unique to his legacy.

‘Bobby Knuckles’ is set to face Darren Till in the headlining feature at Yas Fight Island on July 25. Before he prepares to re-enter the title picture, let’s take a look back at his rise and the hurdles he had to overcome.

Robert Whittaker stream rolled his way into the UFC with his aforementioned wins on ‘The Ultimate Fighter’. Chiefly, he went straight into the lion’s den as he began facing some of the most dangerous 185-pounders on the roster. His approach to taking high-risk high reward fights was the key component to his meteoric rise.

Robert Whittaker: Rise to undisputed status

The MMA community began recognizing his status as a legitimate contender following his brutalization of Derek Brunson. At this point in his career, he was already on a 5 fight win streak and the world took notice. He followed up his performance with a 2 round TKO victory over divisional legend Jacare Souza.

With the aforementioned wins under his belt, it was a foregone conclusion that he would fight for gold. Whittaker drew the former Olympian wrestler Yoel Romero in an interim title bout back in July 2017 at UFC 213. ‘The Reaper’ overcame great adversity through injury on his way to the crown of an interim champion.

He was rather unceremoniously awarded the undisputed strap when newly crowned Middleweight King Georges St-Pierre retired. This did not deter Whittaker who aimed to build a legacy around his resume. He would once again defeat the tyrant of the division in Yoel Romero to truly distance himself from the pack.

UFC 243 in Australia, saw the end of Robert Whittaker’s reign as he was finished by flashy up and comer Israel Adesanya. Robert Whittaker is a few days from re-entering the throne room for Middleweight gold with a win over Darren Till