Robert Whittaker explains how to deal with 'power punchers' like Paulo Costa: "The trick is not to get hit by them"

Robert Whittaker is set to face the imposing figure of Paulo Costa at UFC 284 in February 2023. He recently offered an interesting solution to counteract his foe's well-known power.

'The Reaper' is one of the most well-rounded fighters in modern-day MMA and will be taking on a power-based fighter in 'Borrachinha'. The Brazilian uses his physical gifts to the best of his ability. Costa often overwhelms opponents with pressure and powerful shots.

However, Costa is not the first fighter Robert Whittaker will have faced with one-punch knockout power. 'The Reaper' has fought and beaten the formidable Yoel Romero on two consecutive occasions. He has also beaten Jared Cannonier in dominant fashion.

It would be fair to say that Whittaker is well-versed in navigating the dangers surrounding fighting a power puncher. 'The Reaper' recently spoke with Main Event and previewed his upcoming fight with Costa.

Whittaker said this:

"I've fought a lot of dudes who are power punchers. The trick is to not get hit by them. So hopefully I can keep my head on and duck and weave a fair bit."

Watch the video below from 1:00:

With the middleweight title changing hands at UFC 281, Robert Whittaker will be hoping for a stellar performance against Costa.

'The Reaper' is currently ranked No.2 in the UFC middleweight rankings. It is unclear whether or not Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya will have an immediate rematch. If not, then a victory for Whittaker at UFC 284 could mean a chance to reclaim the belt he once held.

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Robert Whittaker 'hopes' that Paulo Costa misses weight for their fight at UFC 284

Robert Whittaker is set to take on Paulo Costa at UFC 284 in Perth in February 2023. 'The Reaper' will be hoping to edge his way towards another shot at the middleweight title with a victory over 'Borrachinha'.

Whittaker previewed the matchup whilst speaking to Submission Radio and said that he hopes Costa doesn't make weight for their fight. The Brazilian infamously missed weight by almost 20lbs when he fought Marvin Vettori at UFC Fight Night 196. 'Borrachinha' was fined 20% of his purse, which went to Vettori.

'The Reaper' was asked if he had any concerns about Costa not making weight for their fight. He replied:

"Not really, that's more of a him problem. I hope he doesn't make weight, more money for me. He'll be even slower than he is. Even speedy-boy Costa in that Rockhold fight was still slow."

Watch the video below from 21:05: