Robert Whittaker vs. Kelvin Gastelum In Works For UFC 234
The middleweight title showdown between Robert Whittaker and Kelvin Gastelum is happening next year.
ESPN’s Brett Okamoto confirmed with UFC head honcho Dana White that Whittaker is expected to defend his title at UFC 234 PPV event on February 9 in Australia against top contender Kelvin Gastelum.
Breaking: Robert Whittaker vs. Kelvin Gastelum title fight targeted for UFC 234 on Feb. 9 in Australia. Whittaker will get another chance to defend his title at home, after having to pull out last year. https://t.co/P8BN0gGB7m
— Brett Okamoto (@bokamotoESPN) November 3, 2018
White also mentioned if Chris Weidman came out victorious at UFC 230 with unscathed, he’d be used as an alternate for the title bout if needed.
“Yeah, we need alternates for things like that. You know the crazy stuff that goes on around here.”
White also confirmed to me he’s broached the subject of Chris Weidman serving as an alternate for this bout, provided he gets past Jacare Souza on Saturday of course.
— Brett Okamoto (@bokamotoESPN) November 3, 2018
Whittaker last fought at UFC 225 back in June where he won via split decision after defeating Yoel Romero. The fight was supposed to be a title, but Cuban missed weight which led to a non-title showdown. After this bout, ‘The Reaper’ was sidelined with an injury as he broke his hand which required the surgery.
He’s since recovering while coaching ‘TUF 28’ opposite Gastelum.
Gastelum, a former Ultimate Fighter winner last competed back in May where he defeated Brazilian contender Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza which earn him fight of the night. Before this win, Gastelum, 27 scored a massive first-round knockout win over the former champion Michael Bisping.
