Robert Whittaker parents: Here's everything you need to know about the former UFC champion's family
Apart from being a highly accomplished mixed martial artist, Robert Whittaker is one of the most likable individuals in the sport today. His family and upbringing provided the groundwork for who he has become today.
His father Jack Whittaker and his mother Jewel Whittaker have played roles in shaping their son into the highly-ranked contender/ former UFC middleweight champion known the world over. In fact, Robert has gone as far as to pointedly shout out Jack as a major reason he has been so successful in MMA due to the martial arts support his dad gave him through his upbringing.
The UFC's first Australian champion was born on December 20th, 1990 in Otahuhu, Auckland, New Zealand at Middlemore Hospital. Robert has said his mother Jewel's side of the family is largely Kiwi with a strong Maori heritage throughout.
His parents separated when he was 10 and Jack raised him and his brother Steven as a single parent in the year 2000. The Whittaker brothers would relocate to the Sydney suburb of Menai to a housing commission apartment his father resided in during this time.
The Southern Cross tattoo that Robert Whittaker has on his chest is something he strikes before octagon outings over the years. This has a deeper meaning than getting hyped up as it reminds him of his dad who got him the tattoo.
Whittaker is now a husband and father himself as he continues his journey in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Check out Robert Whittaker in dad mode below:
A brief introduction to Robert Whittaker's wife and children
After being raised by parents who instilled discipline and helped him become an elite MMA fighter, Robert Whittaker now tries to pass on the values to his own children.
The 33-year-old has been married to Sofia Whittaker since October 2014. The couple has five children, three sons and two daughters, together. Their three sons are named John, Jack, and Jace while the daughter is named Lilliana. The couple welcomed their youngest daughter in January 2024.
While Whittaker generally keeps his family away from the glitter and glamor of the sports entertainment industry, he has provided small glimpses of his family life through several wholesome social media posts. He often attributes his competitive success to the support given by his family, particularly, his wife Sofia, who helps him prepare for the fights.