UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker is now gearing up to defend his title from former opponent and tough contender Yoel Romero. With that in mind, Whittaker is giving himself no more than a 50 percent chance of success in the upcoming match up.
Whittaker first faced off against Romero for the interim title, ultimately earning a unanimous decision victory over his opponent. Now the two mixed martial arts warriors are set to face off at UFC 225.
The live pay-per-view event will go down June 9 inside the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Speaking to MMA Junkie, Whittaker offered his thoughts on the upcoming match up.
“Who’s left to fight him that he hasn’t already beaten in the top five? I think he’s definitely solidified his place as No. 1 contender. It’s hard not to with him just tearing through absolutely everyone until he got to me.
“I’ve never been one to pick and choose fights. I’m happy to fight whoever is in the No. 1 spot. That seems to be Yoel right now.”
“I took confidence in that I knew I could face adversity in a fight and get over the line. But I’m under no illusion that this fight isn’t 50-50 still. He’s an amazing athlete. He’s an amazing fighter, and he was hella annoying to fight the first time, so I’m looking forward to a real annoying fight the second time.
“I’m doing everything in my favor to stack the chips on my side, and I’m going to get in there and give him hell.”
“Every day I go to the gym, and I increase my skillset. I strive to become the best fighter that I can be. I feel that every time I step into the octagon, I’m showing that – I’m showing a better version of myself. I’m showing the skillsets that I’m gaining. With that mentality, I made it all the way to the top, and I have that mentality now. The No. 1 contender is going to show up, and I’m going to fight him. I may win, I may lose, but I’m doing the right things.
“If you want to see fireworks, make sure you tune in and watch me and Yoel go at it.”
