In the upcoming co-main event at Honda Center in Anaheim, California, on February 17th, former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker (24-7 MMA, 15-5 UFC) is set to square off against Paulo Costa (14-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC).
Whittaker, coming off a loss to current champion Dricus Du Plessis by TKO at UFC 290, is determined not only to defeat Costa but also to inflict significant damage on him.
Speaking to Middle Easy, Whittaker acknowledged Costa’s formidable strength and power, describing him as a potent puncher with aggressive tendencies and dangerous striking abilities.
Aware of Costa’s propensity to dominate with his aggressive fighting style, Whittaker emphasized his intention to disrupt Costa’s rhythm and impose his own game plan.
“I do not intend to let him have that,” Whittaker stated. “I am going in there with bad intentions. I’m looking to go into this fight to really hurt him.”
Confident in his skills and preparation, Whittaker believes he holds the advantage in all aspects of the fight. While acknowledging Costa’s pressure-oriented approach, Whittaker asserted his readiness to counter it effectively.
“That’s where I’ll beat him – because I’m not intimidated by him,” Whittaker affirmed. “I’m better across the board at everything that he is.”
Approaching the fight with a focused mindset and a determination to emerge victorious, Whittaker expressed his intent to finish the fight early and assert his dominance in the middleweight division once again.
“My headspace going into it is the best it’s been,” Whittaker declared. “I’m going in there with bad intentions, and I’m going in there to try and close this fight early. This is what I want, and this is what I’m going to make happen.”
