RIYADH: UFC Fight Night at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh delivered a night of exhilarating mixed martial arts action, with a series of thrilling bouts and unforgettable performances.
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The main event was a highly anticipated bout between top-ranked middleweight contenders Robert Whittaker (The Reaper) and Ikram Aliskerov. The contest lived up to its hype in a display of skill and determination from both fighters.
The Reaper started the fight using precision striking to keep Aliskerov at a distance. However, Aliskerov demonstrated exceptional resilience and adaptability, countering with powerful takedowns and effective ground control. The bout produced intense exchanges and strategic maneuvers, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, Whittaker secured a victory by knockout at one minute 49 seconds of the first round to confirm his status as a leading contender in the division.
I’m the most dangerous middleweight on the planet. Everyone knows that,” he said after the victory.
Whittaker was originally scheduled to fight Khamzat Chimaev, who withdrew at the last minute because of illness. The late change in opponent did not affect Whittaker’s performance. He stayed focused and adapted through “determination and a great team. They kept me switched on, they kept me focused, they understood how dangerous Ikram was if I didn’t take it with the respect he deserved. I told myself that because of them and I just stayed focused like a dog on a bone,” he told Arab News.
