Robert Whittaker is reportedly preparing for a new phase in his UFC career, with a potential opponent identified for his move to the light heavyweight division.
Whittaker’s last outing was a close split-decision loss to Reinier de Ridder at UFC Abu Dhabi in July 2025. Following this fight, the former middleweight champion, who initially entered the UFC as a welterweight after winning The Ultimate Fighter in 2012, announced his intention to compete in the 205-pound division.
While initial speculation suggested a bout with Magomed Ankalaev for his light heavyweight introduction, Whittaker later indicated this was not the case. Now, it appears the Australian fighter is nearing confirmation for his debut in the new weight class.
According to reports from Vestnik MMA, Robert Whittaker is in discussions to face the experienced Nikita Krylov at UFC 329. This event is scheduled to take place during International Fight Week on July 11 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Whittaker boasts a professional record of 27 wins and 9 losses, with a 17-7 standing in the UFC. His notable victories include wins over top contenders such as Paulo Costa, Yoel Romero, and Kelvin Gastelum.
Nikita Krylov, on the other hand, last fought at UFC 324 in January, securing a third-round finish against Modestas Bukauskas, rebounding from two consecutive knockout defeats in 2025. Krylov has been a consistent presence in the UFC’s light heavyweight division since September 2018, with notable wins against Alexander Gustafsson, Ryan Spann, and Johnny Walker.
The 33-year-old Ukrainian fighter holds a 31-11 professional record, including a 12-9 record within the UFC.
