5 potential opponents for Robert Whittaker after UFC 271 setback

#2. Robert Whittaker vs. Jack Hermansson

Hermansson is ranked No.7 with a record of 22-7

Following his recent loss to Sean Strickland, a fight with Robert Whittaker is probably not what Jack Hermansson would expect. However, both men are now coming off losses. They are both highly ranked, and with much of the middleweight division fighting other opponents, perhaps this is the fight to make.

A fight between these two would let the UFC know who might be capable of putting together a title run. This clash could also highlight who requires a step down in the level of competition.

This fight would also pose a very different challenge for Whittaker compared to what he faced in Adesanya. Instead of his striking skills, Hermansson is better known for his exceptional grappling, which would make this fight an exciting clash of styles.

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#1. Robert Whittaker vs. Derek Brunson II

Brunson is ranked No.4 with a record of 23-8

Derek Brunson indicated after his loss at UFC 271 that he would like one more fight before retiring. He is deserving of a big-time fight in his last outing, and Robert Whittaker would certainly provide that. They are also in similar positions as highly ranked fighters coming off tough losses.

Whittaker needs to start racking up wins against high-ranked middleweights, so this fight appears to be a perfect starting point for him. Should he pick up the win, he could then look at derailing other fighter title pushes until there is interest in seeing him challenge for the title.

The rankings of these fighters also make it a bout that makes sense. While Whittaker may face a long road back to the title picture, he remains the No.1 ranked fighter in the division, so fighting someone too far down the rankings wouldn't make sense.