In less than two minutes, Robert Whittaker sent Ikram Aliskerov into semi-consciousness after welcoming him to his first UFC Saudi Arabia main event.
Former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker was initially scheduled to fight up-and-coming fighter Khamzat Chimaev on Saturday, June 22. However, the latter had to withdraw due to illness, which led to Ikram Aliskerov taking over the position.
At 1:49 of Round 1, Whittaker (26-7 MMA, 17-5 UFC) submitted Aliskerov (15-2 MMA, 2-1 UFC) via punches in the main event of the UFC on ABC 6. The middleweight match was held at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s Kingdom Arena.
Ikram Aliskerov’s Shares His Experience Against Robert Whittaker Fight
Whittaker demonstrated that he is still a formidable force at the top of the 185-pound class by finishing his opponent in less than two minutes with world-class striking.
With a right hand, the 33-year-old Australian put Aliskerov on shaky legs. The Russian collapsed against the cage as he followed up a picture-perfect uppercut he had previously missed with a signature right head kick.
When Aliskerov, an unranked but dangerous fighter, unexpectedly entered the battle to replace Khamzat Chimaev, many questioned Whittaker’s decision.
After his loss, Ikram Aliskerov shared his experience in UFC Saudi Arabia against Robert Whittaker; he shared a social media post on X, stating:
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“ Alhamdulilla, no excuses. I don’t regret anything. It was a big experience against one of the best in the sport. I’m young, I’ll work on my mistakes , learn and get back into business soon.Thank to everyone for support messages.”
This post of Ikram received immense love from UFC fans.
Following the bout, Whittaker said he would be open to filling in as a backup in UFC 305 in Perth, Western Australia on August 18. The main event on that card is the middleweight championship match between Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plessis.
Also Read: Robert Whittaker vs. Ikram Aliskerov: Age, Height, Record, Net Worth and More Comparison
