Robert Whittaker had great success in his move to light heavyweight, but some of Joe Rogan’s commentary during his UFC 329 victory left him puzzled.
Whittaker stopped Nikita Krylov in the third round of their July matchup, breaking the Ukrainian veteran’s jaw and ending a two-fight losing streak. It was also his first victory since June 2024.
Whittaker Responds to Rogan’s Criticism
Rogan questioned Whittaker’s physique at 205 pounds during the fight, describing him as “soft.” The longtime UFC commentator also suggested Krylov may have discovered “the blueprint” for beating the former middleweight champion. Whittaker told Bedtime MMA that he did not agree with that assessment.
“A little upsetting. You should see the amount of memes that came out after that commentary.”
Whittaker said he initially assumed Rogan’s comment about a blueprint was simply a mistake.
“I picked up on that comment, but I assumed it was, like, an accident when they said they had ‘the blueprint to beat me.’
Whittaker Admits He Had a Slow Start against Krylov
Rogan’s assessment improved as the fight progressed. Whittaker defended Krylov’s takedown attempts, found his rhythm on the feet and eventually secured the stoppage in the third round.
Still, Whittaker acknowledged that his opening round could have been sharper.
“I think the first round could have started better.”
“I don’t know if it was because of his pace in trying to force that takedown and wear on me; he came off second best in that exchange, or if it was the nerves of everything kind of falling on my shoulders.”
Whittaker had plenty on his mind entering the fight. He was coming off two losses at middleweight while making his debut at 205 pounds.
“Had two losses in middleweight, just moved up to light heavyweight, had a lot of doubters and stuff like that.”
He also believes he could have used more movement and variety early in the contest.
“I think the beginning could have started a little sharper, maybe. I could have had some more impactful moments.”
Whittaker Wants Another Fight in 2026
Whittaker appears comfortable with his new home at light heavyweight. The 35-year-old has already competed across three UFC weight classes. He won The Ultimate Fighter: The Smashes at welterweight before moving to middleweight, where he eventually captured the UFC title in 2017.
Now, he wants to finish his career at 205 pounds. Several names could await him, including former champion Jan Blachowicz and ranked contenders Khalil Rountree Jr. and Bogdan Guskov. Paulo Costa is another possibility after moving up from middleweight.
Whittaker is open to any of them as long as the timing works. Whittaker also sees a clear path toward the title for fighters who make an immediate impact at 205 pounds.
“The light heavyweight division is so fluid right now. You can just have a good win and be put straight into a title conversation.”
“Jan would be a good fight.”
“I think Rountree or Bogdan, those guys are all good guys. I think Jiri wants to fight Costa. It depends who’s ready.”
“My whole thing with the UFC is I give them a date, and they give me a name. So whoever’s ready by the end of the year, I’ll step in there with.”