Robert ‘The Reaper’ Whittaker is an Australian mixed martial artist currently competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s middleweight division. As the #3 ranked fighter in the middleweight division, Whittaker has become infamous for his elite-level striking and tactical mastery inside the octagon. His career, marked by numerous notable victories and a reign as the UFC middleweight champion, showcases his status as one of UFC’s middleweight greats.
Whittaker began his professional MMA career on March 14, 2009, at Xtreme MMA 2, where he faced Chris Tallowin. He secured a 1st round TKO victory in this fight. Whittaker continued to compete across various promotions, demonstrating his skill and tenacity while compiling an impressive record. His early success eventually led him to the UFC, where he debuted on December 15, 2012, against Brad Scott at UFC on FX 6, winning the fight via unanimous decision.
As the middleweight champion, Whittaker defended his title against some of the division's toughest contenders. Robert Whittaker's time as champion included a memorable rematch with Yoel Romero at UFC 225 on June 9, 2018. This bout made headlines for its high level of intensity. Although Whittaker eventually lost the title to Israel Adesanya at UFC 243 on October 6, 2019, he remains a top contender whose goal is to once again get the gold wrapped around his waist.
Robert Whittaker’s next outing will see him facing off against the rising prospect Ikram Aliskerov in a middleweight bout on June 22, 2024. This fight will be part of the UFC Fight Night: Saudi Arabia, taking place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Robert Whittaker Coach
Robert Whittaker, the former UFC middleweight champion, trains under the guidance of coaches at his gym, Gracie Smeaton Grange, located in Sydney, Australia. His primary coaches include head coach Alex Prates and striking instructor Justin Fitzgerald.
From 2013 to 2014, Robert Whittaker briefly trained at Tristar Gym in Canada, working under the guidance of coach Firas Zahabi.
Where does Robert Whittaker train?
At present, Robert ‘The Reaper’ Whittaker trains and fights out of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Smeaton Grange in Smeaton Grange, Australia. When not preparing for a fight, Robert Whittaker serves as an instructor at his gym where he helps train and mentor aspiring martial artists.
FAQs on Rob Whittaker's trainer
A. Robert ‘The Reaper’ Whittaker’s head coach is Alex Prates.
A. Robert Whittaker currently holds an MMA record of 25-7-0.
A. Robert Whittaker is from Otahuhu, Auckland, New Zealand.
A. Robert Whittaker once held the coveted UFC middleweight championship. He lost the belt against Israel Adesanya at UFC 243 on October 6, 2019.
A. Robert Whittaker is currently 33 years old as of 2024.
A. UFC middleweight Jacob Malkoun is one of Robert Whittaker’s teammates.
