Former UFC middleweight champion Rob Whittaker was his typical gracious self in defeat at the post-fight press conference after UFC 243 in Melbourne this evening.
Whittaker was defeated by Israel Adesanya who improved his undefeated professional record to 18-0, on his way to claiming the undisputed middleweight title
Down but not out, Rob Whittaker has stated he is eager to get back fighting as soon as he can.
“I’m 28, this is my first loss in the division,” Whittaker said at the post-fight press conference.
“Trust me when I say I am not going anywhere. I am fortunate enough to leave the octagon without any injuries so I look forward to getting back to work.”
Whittaker has battled illness and injuries that have seen him compete inside the UFC only once in over two years.
The Gracie Smeaton Grange fighter was clearly disappointed in his performance but steadfast in his opinion that he will be back.
“I’m on the market, I’m here to fight I’m back to work,” Whittaker said.
“I felt great out there, I felt great tonight. This is the best I’ve ever been and it just wasn’t my night.
“I’m not going nowhere. I’m still one of the best fighters in the world.”
The loss snaps Whittaker’s undefeated run at middleweight that has he has held since 2014 bringing his overall record to 20-5.
