In the UFC, versatility has become a hallmark of the sport’s elite fighters. More and more, athletes are showing a willingness to challenge themselves by moving across multiple weight divisions, seeking new opportunities, and testing their skills against a variety of opponents. This adaptability has become a defining feature of the modern UFC landscape. One such fighter who is open to moving to a new division is former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker.

Whittaker’s desire for another shot at the middleweight crown is still very much alive. However, he will have no problem making a switch to the light heavyweight division because of his skill set. While there has been no official announcement of the move it will be interesting to see ‘The Reaper’ in a new division. One of the biggest reasons for him trying a move is the weight which he moves at normally. During one of his conversations at the MMA Arcade Podcast,  he showed no interest in going back down to welterweight where he competed til 2014.

He said, “I’m still playing with the idea of going up to light heavyweight. It’s just like, I’m a big dude. Much bigger than people think I am.” This was exactly the point of discussion during the JRE Fight Companion podcast on February 8, 2025. Former UFC fighter Brendan Schaub came up with a unique fight suggestion for the fans out there. According to him one of the most intriguing fights in the UFC would be a clash between Jiri Prochazka and Robert Whittaker in the light heavyweight division. Joe Rogan who has always been a fan of ‘The Reaper’ seemed really shocked with the idea.

He said, “Is that what Robert wants to do? Wants to go to 205? Really? That’s crazy for a guy who started at 170.” Well for now the former champion is focused on his time in the division he once ruled. ‘The Reaper’ lost his highly anticipated fight against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308 via submission in the first round. Since then, the 34-year-old is back in the gym grinding and waiting for his next fight. So who should Robert Whittaker face next in his career? Former UFC champion Michael Bisping feels there’s one fighter he should focus on now.

Jared Cannonier should be the next choice for Robert Whittaker feels Michael Bisping

Khamzat Chimaev’s dismantling of Robert Whittaker was one of the most surprising outcomes of the last year. The MMA world was left in disbelief as Whittaker, a seasoned veteran, struggled to withstand Chimaev’s relentless onslaught. Whittaker who has always been known for his elite ground game failed to counter Chimaev’s threat. He will now have to work his way back to the top to get a title shot next. At this point, the perfect opponent for him would be Jared Cannonier whom he previously faced and defeated at UFC 254 in 2020.

‘The Count’ also feels that a matchup with the 40-year-old Jared Cannonier could serve as a significant confidence booster for ‘The Reaper’. He said, “Robert’s still at the top of his game. Robert would want it because he’s looking at it as a good fight to find his mojo, to come back from, to get back in the win column. A rematch five years in the making—I think that makes all the sense in the world okay.” 

Cannonier once again showed that age is nothing but a number, delivering a jaw-dropping victory over Gregory Rodrigues at UFC Vegas 102. The former middleweight title challenger knocked out Rodrigues in the fourth round that had the UFC Apex crowd roaring in disbelief.

But the big next question is what lies ahead of Robert Whittaker in the division? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.