The mixed martial arts community is abuzz with speculation regarding the future of former UFC middleweight champion, Robert Whittaker. A recent announcement detailing his debut as a desk analyst for UFC Perth has ignited concerns among fans that “The Reaper” might soon be hanging up his gloves for good.
It is always an emotional moment for fans when beloved fighters, who have become pillars of the UFC roster, decide to conclude their competitive careers. Recent examples include Paul Craig`s retirement announcement at UFC Paris, following a highlight-filled career. Conversely, Jon Jones`s brief retirement earlier this year was swiftly reversed, reminding fans that intentions can change.
Now, fans are speculating that another modern legend might be preparing for a life beyond active competition, prompted by this new development in Whittaker’s career.
Whittaker Steps into the Broadcast Booth for UFC Perth
UFC Perth is set to feature a Fight Night card this weekend at the RAC Arena in Australia. While Dominick Reyes and Carlos Ulberg are slated as the main event headliners, the attendance of Robert Whittaker is generating significant local excitement. Reports indicate that Whittaker will join the commentary team of Brendan Fitzgerald, Dominick Cruz, and Paul Felder as a desk analyst, marking his first foray into this new role.
At 34 years old, Whittaker boasts an impressive career with 24 UFC bouts. However, he is currently facing consecutive defeats for the first time in his middleweight career. Following his recent loss to Reinier de Ridder, questions naturally arose about his next steps, and a move into broadcasting now appears to be a potential avenue.
Fan Reactions and Mounting Retirement Concerns
While many fans are excited to see the veteran fighter transition into an analytical role, a strong undercurrent of concern about his fighting future has rapidly emerged. Social media reactions highlight these fears, with many seeing this broadcast opportunity as a precursor to retirement:
Fan Comment: “I’ve always enjoyed his analysis and breakdowns of fights, excited to see how he does.”
Fan Comment: “Khamzat [Chimaev] really smeshed this guy into a new occupation.”
Fan Comment: “We all know what this means.”
Fan Comment: “He knows he’s done and now he’s preparing for his day job after.”
Fan Comment: “This is always the first step of retirement.”
Fan Comment: “Retirement is near.”
Whittaker`s Unfinished Goal: A Return to Fighting in Australia
Despite the rampant retirement rumors, Robert Whittaker has been transparent about his future ambitions, emphasizing one significant goal he still wishes to achieve. Following his latest defeat, “The Reaper” expressed a strong desire to fight again in front of his home crowd in Australia, a sentiment he reiterated forcefully:
Robert Whittaker: “It’s been a while and honestly, I’m longing for it. It’s been a while since I’ve fought in Australia and I’d love to fight here again. It’s time.”
Whittaker hasn`t competed in Australia since 2019, having previously missed two opportunities to defend his middleweight title there due to injuries. Given his clear aspiration to perform for Australian fans once more, it appears unlikely that the former champion will retire without first attempting to fulfill this deeply personal goal.
