Whittaker Demands Rematch: Will He Face Adesanya Again?

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Post on May 11, 2025

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Whittaker Demands Rematch: Will He Face Adesanya Again?

Israel Adesanya's dominant victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 287 left the MMA world buzzing, but one fighter's voice rings loudest in the aftermath: Robert Whittaker. The former middleweight champion, who twice challenged Adesanya for the title, has publicly declared his desire for a trilogy fight, igniting a fiery debate among fans and analysts alike. Will the UFC grant Whittaker's wish, setting the stage for another epic clash between these two titans of the octagon?

The electrifying knockout victory at UFC 287 saw Adesanya reclaim his middleweight throne with a stunning performance. However, the win hasn't silenced the calls for a Whittaker rematch. Whittaker's two previous fights against Adesanya, while ending in defeats, were incredibly close, showcasing his exceptional skills and resilience. These near-misses have fueled speculation, and Whittaker’s outspoken demand for a third fight adds further fuel to the fire.

Why Whittaker Deserves Another Shot:

• Competitive Fights: Both previous fights were extremely competitive, showcasing Whittaker's ability to push Adesanya to his limits. Many consider these fights some of the best in Adesanya's career.
• Improved Skillset: Whittaker has consistently evolved his game since those fights. He's shown improvements in his striking and overall strategy, suggesting he could present a more significant challenge this time around.
• Unfinished Business: The narrative of unfinished business is powerful in MMA. A trilogy fight would offer a definitive conclusion to their rivalry and provide closure for fans.

Obstacles to a Whittaker-Adesanya III:

• Other Contenders: The middleweight division is stacked with talent. Several other fighters deserve title shots, and the UFC may prioritize them. Names like Dricus du Plessis and Jared Cannonier immediately come to mind.
• UFC's Strategic Decisions: The UFC carefully crafts fight cards to maximize profitability and viewer interest. A Whittaker rematch, while highly anticipated by many, isn't a guaranteed financial success.
• Adesanya's Preferences: Ultimately, Adesanya has a say in his next opponent. He might choose a different challenger to test his skills further or face a fresh opponent to build a new rivalry.

What Happens Next?

The coming weeks will be crucial. The UFC will likely weigh various factors—fan demand, fighter rankings, and potential financial returns—before making a decision. Social media is already ablaze with opinions, with #WhittakerAdesanya3 trending heavily. Whittaker's vocal campaign certainly increases the pressure on the UFC to consider his request.

Prediction: While a Whittaker-Adesanya III is far from certain, the possibility remains strong. The high stakes, significant fan interest, and Whittaker’s compelling argument make a trilogy fight a tantalizing prospect. The UFC might strategically choose to capitalize on the existing buzz and deliver what many fans desperately crave: a final chapter in this compelling rivalry. Only time will tell if this highly anticipated matchup will materialize. Stay tuned for further updates as the UFC announces its future plans for the middleweight division.