Robert Whittaker will have a new rival in the UFC Saudi Arabia. Instead of Khamzat Chimaev another Dagestani stepped in, Ikram Aliskerov, another hungry dog who wants his piece of fame.

Many think Aliskerov isn’t a decent opponent, particularly when fighting on short notice, but we don’t share that opinion. This guy has massive potential, and from what we have seen so far, he might be the next big thing in the UFC. Ikram is unranked, but he may very well end up among the top ten following this battle.

Whittaker wants another chance for the title and to prove wrong all the doubters who suggest his peak is way past. He announced many changes in his approach during training camp, so let’s see what happens next.

Here are the odds on this link.

Whittaker VS Aliskerov Preview

Robert Whittaker

The Reaper has been one of the best fighters in the 185-pound division, but over the years, he slowed down. And that’s more than visible, due to his recent results and performances. Two losses and wins each isn’t reassuring for Whittaker, who lost to Adesanya, then beat Marvin Vettori before suffering a devastating KO vs. Dricus du Plessis.

Kiwi then faced Paulo Costa, whom he defeated via unanimous decision; however, not being too confident or commanding inside the octagon. He tactically outsmarted the rusty Brazilian, and that was it.

Whittaker is a solid defensive wrestler, yet much better in the clinch than on the ground, and that goes when attacking as well. He has solid punching and striking abilities, and may we say that they are his best weapon, along with solid discipline and tactical knowledge.

However, when facing opponents with longer reach, he isn’t confident that much, particularly now when his speed isn’t as dominant as in the past. Plenty of injuries, plus the age, have taken away some of his physical abilities.

Ikram Aliskerov

Now, this guy isn’t ranked in the UFC—yet. But believe us when we say that the Russian fighter has all the needed resources to become the elite of the division. He is versatile, strong, very disciplined, and dedicated. So far, he has 15 wins and one defeat in his MMA career, with that sole loss coming at the hands of Khamzat Chimaev five years ago.

Over the years, Aliskerov perfected his grappling, and many see that as his primary power, yet that’s not the case. This guy has more than a powerful punch, and overall, when on his feet, his jabs dictate the pace and pressurize the rivals.

Aliskerov likes being in the clinch, where he sucks the power of the rivals with judo and dirty boxing because of his raw power. The Russian uses knees and elbows often in those situations. Also, his movement is pretty decent and he knows to switch positions and angles fast enough to have a solid view for a hit.

Whitaker VS Aliskerov Predictions

The Kiwi has a better bio, and his history is richer than Aliskerov’s, even though he’s only two years younger. While the first was dominating the UFC, the Russian was still in the minor promotions. Now, about the fight itself, we can add that Whittaker’s chin seems doubtful right now and that we haven’t been sure about it since du Plessis’ KO. He still has the moves and power, although, not quick as before.

As for Aliskerov, he comes on short notice, which could be a problem for Whittaker for two reasons. No.1 he prepared for Khamzat, and No.2, pressure is much greater on him. That’s why we think he’s going to be conservative in his approach.

Of all the possible outcomes here, we picked fight going to the distance, because of the reasons from the previous paragraph. Aliskerov, too, won’t be radical and will try to keep his gas tank for the championship rounds.

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