Unexpected Changes in UFC Middleweight Division: Whittaker’s Opponent Switched Last Minute

A last-minute switch-up has rocked the UFC middleweight division as Robert Whittaker‘s anticipated showdown in Saudia Arabia against Khamzat Chimaev on June 23 has been derailed. The UFC confirmed that Chimaev is out of the fight, and Ikram Aliskerov, a seven-fight win streak Dagestani fighter, will step in to face Whittaker.

Originally, Whittaker saw this bout as an opportunity to potentially secure a shot at the UFC middleweight title currently held by Dricus du Plessis, with a match against Israel Adesanya being discussed for UFC 305. However, former champ Sean Strickland has thrown his name into the mix, looking to face the winner of the DDP vs. Adesanya bout after defeating Costa at UFC 302.

Chimaev’s withdrawal comes amidst reports of him being «violently ill,» leading to his return home for recovery. This setback adds to a series of inactivity issues for Chimaev, including previous injuries and a battle with COVID-19. Despite his undefeated streak in the UFC middleweight division, the fighter has faced challenges in securing consistent fights, with his most recent win being against Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 on short notice.

Whittaker, who triumphed over Costa at UFC 298, had been gearing up for a high-stakes match against Chimaev. Speculation also surrounds the possible withdrawal of Conor McGregor from his scheduled UFC 303 fight against Michael Chandler, escalating uncertainties in the UFC landscape.

The unexpected turn of events has left fans and fighters alike on edge, with Aliskerov stepping up to face Whittaker in what promises to be a compelling showdown. The shifting dynamics in the UFC middleweight division suggest a period of transition and new challenges on the horizon.