Alexander Volkanovski, the reigning UFC featherweight champion, is highly skeptical about Dricus Du Plessis' chances of defeating Robert Whittaker.
Follow Us
Alexander Volkanovski, the reigning UFC featherweight champion, is highly skeptical about Dricus Du Plessis’ chances of defeating Robert Whittaker. The two middleweights are set to clash at UFC 290 this Saturday at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Volkanovski firmly believes that Du Plessis (with a record of 19-2 MMA, 5-0 UFC) will be outmatched by the formidable Whittaker (with a record of 25-6 MMA, 15-4 UFC). Volkanovski’s doubts suggest that an upset victory for Du Plessis is highly improbable.
Despite Dricus Du Plessis’ recent impressive wins over Darren Till and Derek Brunson, former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker has only suffered two losses in the division, both against current champion Israel Adesanya. Alexander Volkanovski, another Australian fighter, anticipates that Whittaker’s experience and skills will prove too overwhelming for Du Plessis.
Read More: Conor McGregor’s deleted Instagram post sparks speculation after USADA deadline mishap
“Look, man, obviously Izzy wants new blood,” Volkanovski said on his YouTube channel. “He definitely would like to see Dricus go out there (and win) so that he could fight him, a new person in front of him. There would be a lot of hype if he was able to beat Robert Whittaker. But beating Robert Whittaker is not going to be easy for him. Again, he could be a great fighter, but Robert Whittaker is just too well rounded, he’s too good everywhere, and his skill set is gonna be too much.
Volkanovski expressed his belief that it would be irrational to think that Dricus Du Plessis can emerge victorious against Robert Whittaker. According to Volkanovski, while it may be exciting to witness an underdog securing a significant triumph, it is unlikely to occur against an opponent of Whittaker’s caliber. Volkanovski praised Whittaker’s intelligence, versatility, and overall skills, asserting that he will present a significant challenge for Du Plessis.
Volkanovski firmly stated that if the winner of their bout is considered the next title contender, it will undoubtedly be Whittaker due to his exceptional abilities. Volkanovski emphasized Whittaker’s dominance in his fights outside of his encounters with Israel Adesanya, highlighting the Australian fighter’s remarkable prowess and affirming his confidence in Whittaker’s capabilities.
“I think you’d be mad to think that Dricus can get it done. Obviously it’s entertaining for an underdog to get a big win but not against someone like a Robert Whittaker. He’s too smart, he’s too well rounded, and I think he’s gonna be way too much for Dricus. If they’re the next guys fighting for the title out of that fight, it’s going to have to be Rob. I cannot see Rob losing that fight. He’s obviously unstoppable outside the Izzy fights. No one can get anywhere near him. That just shows you how good Robert Whittaker is.”
Read More: UFC legend Daniel Cormier speaks out about Conor McGregor’s rape allegations
For more UFC news and updates click here
Get the latest from Sportslumo.com by following us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube
