“They Underestimate His Capabilities…”: Robert Whittaker Opens up on the Reason Why He Respects “The Threat Of” Dricus du Plessis

UFC’s middleweight division is one of the most happening divisions in the promotion. It currently houses the most star-studded roster with Israel Adesanya reigning supreme as the champion. One of the most respected and feared fighters within the division is Robert Whittaker. The former champion is currently tasked with a challenge that he recognizes as a ‘threat’ to an extent.

Dricus Du Plessis, the Middleweight fighter who has been beefing with the division champion, is set to take on Robert Whittaker next before he supposedly continues his quest for the championship title. Both talented fighters pose a serious threat to each other and the fact that there is the title belt as an incentive makes things even more interesting.

History won’t repeat itself – Robert Whittaker taking Dricus Du Plessis ‘Threat’ seriously

Dricus Du Plessis is a fighter who seems very sure of himself. He has been calling out the division champ Israel Adesanya and is desperate to get his day in the ring with him. The beef between both the fighters turned ugly real quick as nationality and roots were brought into the equation.

In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Robert Whittaker spoke candidly about his upcoming fight against Dricus Du Plessis and the ‘threat’ that he poses to Whittaker.

The interviewer asks Whittaker what he thought of Dricus Du Plessis’ former opponents taking him lightly and his general opinion of his opponent. To this Whittaker said, “Um, I think it’s because he’s not super flashy because he doesn’t do crazy things and he doesn’t… he doesn’t really do things that stand out amazingly. People overlooking, you know, they… they underestimate his capabilities. But I… he won’t find that in me. I understand the threat he brings to the fight and… you know I’m treating with… with the due respect.“.

Rumor suggests that the winner of the Whittaker vs. Du Plessis fight might get a title shot against Israel Adesanya. While everyone knows that both fighters are of the opinion that they deserve the title shot, both realize the challenge that lies ahead of them. Touching up on this point, the interviewer asked Whittaker what he thought of Du Plessis picking Whittaker to fight before he went on to Adesanya.

“Definitely. You see… and that’s one of the reasons why I have to respect the threat that he brings because he… he’s looking for a hard fight. He doesn’t want the easy road. And… yeah, you’ve gotta respect that.” replied Robert Whittaker, as cool as cucumber.

The Title Trident – A short recap

The Title Trident consists of three primary heads – Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker, and Dricus Du Plessis. Although Adesanya has dominated the Middleweight division like no one before, he still has a lot of people eyeing the title. Robert Whittaker and Israel Adesanya have met twice in the Octagon – once in UFC 243 and once in UFC 271. However, Adesanya has taken the cake in both fights. Therefore, Whittaker is aware of what it will take to overthrow the current champion.

Dricus du Plessis has not faced the Stylebender yet. Therefore, it is fair to say that he might not have the correct assessment of exactly how difficult this challenge might prove to be for him, in case he wins his fight against Robert Whittaker.

Dive Deeper – UFC Legend Discloses Why Robert Whittaker Is the “Spoiled Apple” Because of Israel Adesanya Ahead of Dricus du Plessis Fight

That being said, nothing can be said for certain, especially considering both fighters are of great caliber. Robert Whittaker is gearing up to take on Dricus du Plessis at UFC 290 on 9 July.

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