Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker believes he is entering a new phase of his career as he prepares to make his light heavyweight debut against Nikita Krylov, his first appearance inside the Octagon in 2026.
The Australian steps into the 205-pound division after a difficult spell in recent years, but insists the setbacks have only strengthened his resolve. Rather than dwelling on the past, Whittaker is embracing the opportunity to reinvent himself.
“I am no stranger to adversity,” Whittaker said ahead of the bout. “It’s not about how many times you get knocked down, it’s how many times you get back up.”
The move to light heavyweight has coincided with changes outside the cage as well. Whittaker revealed that bringing his family along for this chapter has helped reshape both his outlook and preparation.
“I needed to change some things. By moving up to light heavyweight and bringing my family along with me, I’m enjoying everything. Honestly, I feel like a new man. It’s a new version of myself,” he said.
Standing across from him will be Krylov, a dangerous and unpredictable striker who has long been regarded as one of the division’s most exciting finishers. While acknowledging the challenge, Whittaker believes Krylov’s aggressive style could also present openings.
“I think in that unpredictability, he opens himself up to getting hit. I plan to be patient, wait for my time, wait for my moments and capitalise on them,” said the 35-year-old.
Known throughout his career for his calmness under pressure, Whittaker believes that composure is both an innate quality and one sharpened through years of elite competition. “I think it’s natural, but it’s certainly gotten better with practice, training, fights and experience.”
Despite the intrigue surrounding his future at light heavyweight, the former champion is refusing to look beyond Krylov. Asked where a victory would place him in the title picture, Whittaker kept his focus firmly on the task at hand.
“I haven’t thought about it. Nikita is going to take all my attention and focus. Whatever happens afterwards, happens afterwards,” he said.
For Whittaker, this fight represents far more than just a divisional debut. It is an opportunity to prove that he can still compete among the elite while embarking on a fresh journey at light heavyweight.
Streaming information:
Watch UFC 329 - McGregor vs Holloway 2 on July 12, 2026, from 6:30 AM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), Sony Sports Ten 4 SD (Tamil, Telugu & Kannada) and Sony LIV.
Comments
Published on Jul 11, 2026