Whittaker survives early scare in moment of redemption
By Liam O'Loughlin and Lachlan Harper
Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker has returned to the winner's circle after defeating Paulo Costa at UFC 298.
The scorers judged the unanimous decision victory at 29-28 29-28 30-27, after a brutal three-round battle.
The fight was Whittaker's first since losing to Dricus du Plessis on July 8, 2023.
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Whittaker had to withstand a number of heavy blows from the Brazilian, including a savage spinning leg kick at the end of the first round that left the 33-year-old stumbling.
Blood continued to pour from Whittaker's head during the fight as a result of the blow. He also suffered a poke in the eye during the second round which forced a time out.
Despite the blows, the Aussie managed to stay composed throughout the fight, landing a number of shots including several leg kicks.
"He's landing more shots and creating more damage," former UFC fighter Michael Bisping said on commentary during the third round.
Post-fight, Whittaker explained there was significant expectation he'd put on himself before the battle.
"This is the exact fight I prepared for, this is the fight I wanted ... he's a tough dude," the Aussie said.
"I put pressure on myself to perform after my last fight against Dricus [du Plessis].
"I'm not going anywhere."
As for the first-round head kick that almost ended it, Whittaker shrugged it off.
"Nothing but a flesh wound. It wasn't fun, but it was his best shot all night," he said.
