The UFC 298 event is set to feature a highly anticipated middleweight showdown between former middleweight king Robert Whittaker and Mr Secret Juice himself – Paulo Costa.
Robert Whittaker Defeats Paulo Costa at UFC 298
The Reaper comes into this fight following a significant setback, having only lost to Israel Adesanya in the last decade before facing a defeat against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 290 in a number one contender fight. Despite this, Whittaker boasts a commendable 25-7 professional record, distinguished by his puzzling striking and high-level grappling skills. His fighting style is characterized by technical boxing, effective leg kicks, and a notable 4.47 significant strikes landed per minute with a 42% accuracy. Whittaker’s defensive prowess and his ability to blend takedowns into his game plan, completing 0.85 per round at a 39% success rate, play a crucial role in maintaining his standing in the division.
Paulo Costa
Borrachinha on the other hand, has faced challenges in maintaining activity within the division due to various factors, including illnesses and injuries. Nonetheless, he remains a formidable contender, currently ranked No. 6 in the middleweight division. Costa, “The Eraser,” is known for his explosive striking power, having secured 11 of his wins by knockout and holds a 14-2 record. Costa lands an impressive 6.50 significant strikes per minute at a 60% accuracy, showcasing his capability to deliver fight-ending punches and kicks. Despite absorbing nearly as many strikes as he lands, Costa’s strength and power remain his hallmark.
This matchup between Whittaker and Costa is expected to be a clash of technical mastery against brute force. Whittaker’s approach will likely involve using his footwork to remain elusive, setting traps, and utilizing his wrestling to tire Costa out. Costa, known for his solid takedown defence and devastating power, aims to counter Whittaker’s tactics with his aggressive striking and fight-ending kicks. The fight provides an intriguing contrast in styles, with Whittaker’s precision and technique up against Costa’s power and aggression.
What Unfolded?
First round as advertised with Costa and Whittaker throwing leather. Whittaker looking sharp on his feet mixing a variety of shots and landing. The former champ targeted the Brazilians lead leg, and was successful in landing several combinations as opposed to Costas’ singular shots. With ten-seconds left of the round, Costa landed a huge spinning-heel kick which wobbled Costa, who was ultimately saved by the bell.
In the second the cobwebs seem to be cleared from Whittaker who pressures forward and lands, but Costa is landing jabs himself busting up the face of the Aussie. Whittaker has found more success with his combinations, which Costa welcomes telling him to “come on” after having his head snapped back repeatedly. A strong response from Whittaker after being rocked in the first.
Both men straight back into the action with it all to play for. Anybody’s fight and both men taking and giving damage. Costa seemed to be the fresher in the third, while Whittaker slowed down ever so slightly, however still landing the jab and doing his signature blits. Both men bloody, battered, and swinging until the final bell.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
