Robert Whittaker unveils plans for next UFC fight and hints at major development

Robert Whittaker opens up on wanting to fight Sean Strickland and also moving to light heavyweight.

Mathew Riddle | Mar 17, 2025

Per Haljestam-Imagn Images

Robert Whittaker's next foray into the UFC might involve a move in weight class.

'The Reaper' is looking to rebound from the most lopsided loss of his career. Whittaker was submitted by Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308 in 2024, 'Borz' flattened Whittaker's teeth with a face crank and the Australia-based fighter hasn't fought since.

Now, Whittaker faces the prospect of fighting contenders like Caio Borralho, Roman Dolidze, or Sean Strickland on his return — if he returns to middleweight.

Feb 17, 2024; Anaheim, California, USA; Robert Whittaker fights against Paulo Costa during UFC 298 at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Robert Whittaker wants Sean Strickland for next UFC fight before considering new career at light heavyweight

Speaking to MMA Arcade, Whittaker laid out his plans for his next UFC appearance.

"I'm gonna decide [what to do] after this next fight [at middleweight]," Whittaker explained. "I'm gonna really try and push the boundaries of muscle-to-weight ratio and see where we come up. [Sean Strickland] would be great at International Fight Week."

International fight week hosts UFC 317.

Whittaker has called out Strickland before. Despite the two fighters sharing plenty of opponents in the rankings, they've never really come close to fighting before.

There is some animosity, with Strickland bashing Whittaker's title chances back in 2024 and offering to fight Whittaker had he gotten his belt back at UFC 312. Unfortunately, Strickland was defeated by Du Plessis for a second time and had his nose flattened in the process.

More MMA Knockout News

Stick with MMAKnockout for more FREE coverage of the UFC, MMA, Boxing. Follow MMAKnockout on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Published Mar 17, 2025

MATHEW RIDDLE

Mathew is a UK-based combat sports journalist, graphic designer, and SEO expert with half a decade of digital marketing and a dedicated four-year track record in MMA journalism. He joined MMA Knockout when it was founded in 2023. Mathew's insights have been featured on Bloody Elbow, The Fight Fanatic, and Heavy on UFC. He runs Warrior Tribune and can be contacted by his Muckrack profile.