"Not leaving this country without doing that" - With family in mind, Robert Whittaker determined to fight Khamzat Chimaev to the best of his ability
Robert Whittaker will look to pick up his third win in 2024 when he faces Khamzat Chimaev in a five-round fight at UFC 308 this weekend. He recently shared that he is ready to fight to the best of his abilities for all 25 minutes as he looks to hand 'Borz' the first loss of his mixed martial arts career.
Speaking at the UFC 308 media day, 'The Reaper' claimed he isn't focused on his opponent, but expects Chimaev to be hard and aggressive throughout the fight. Whittaker mentioned he is prepared for the hardest fight of his life, before adding:
"I've prepared for the hardest fight of my life, to start extremely hard, sprinting for the first five to 10 minutes, but also drag it out. I'm ready to sprint for 25 minutes, if so. I'm coming for war."
When asked what drives him, the No. 3-ranked middleweight responded:
"My family. I'm going to use the word again - duty - and that's a strong word, if you understand what it means. It's my duty to be there on Saturday night, to turn up and to fight Chimaev to the best of my abilities for 25 minutes. I am not leaving this country without doing that, no matter what. This is my duty to my family. I'm here to do that."
Check out Robert Whittaker's comments on facing Khamzat Chimaev below:
Whittaker has expressed confidence heading into the fight due to his well-rounded game. He has shared that he plans to stuff Chimaev's takedowns and beat him up. UFC CEO Dana White has labeled the bout as a title eliminator.
Khamzat Chimaev claims Robert Whittaker knows how to lose
Robert Whittaker is not the only fighter confident heading into this weekend's UFC 308 clash. Khamzat Chimaev recently labeled himself as the most dangerous fighter in the UFC, claiming that his upcoming opponent knows how to lose. Speaking at the UFC 308 media day, 'Borz' claimed:
"He knows how to lose. We don't know so I am ready for victory... I don't know, maybe, he will be dangerous, but I am the most dangerous guy in the world."
Check out Khamzat Chimaev's comments on Robert Whittaker below:
Chimaev has never been defeated in his mixed martial arts career, finishing 13 of his 15 opponents. However, his upcoming clash with Whittaker will mark his first against a ranked middleweight. It will also be the first time he competes in a five-round bout.