The co-main event of UFC 298 featured a crucial matchup with big future implications at 185 pounds. Robert Whittaker and Paulo Costa were expected to put on a show, and delivered on all fronts.
Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa Preview
Whittaker came into this fight with a lot to prove. Which sounds crazy given Whittaker is the former middleweight champion with a 12-3 record at the weight class. The last time Robert Whittaker fought, many fans were disappointed as he was knocked out in the second round against Dricus du Plessis. Despite du Plessis winning the title last month at UFC 297, there is still talk that Whittaker may not be the fighter he once was. This fight proves crucial for Whittaker’s career to solidify his spot as one of the best middleweights in the world.
Standing in the way is a Brazilian tank in Paulo Costa. Costa’s social media antics have amassed him a big following due to his funny posts and broken English. Costa has been the subject of much criticism due to his inactivity as of late. His last fight came in August of 2022 and since 2021 he’s pulled out of four fights while only fighting twice. He did pick up a win over Luke Rockhold last time out but went into that fight off a two-fight losing streak and is just 1-2 in the promotion since 2020.
Fight Recap
Both men got off to a hot start exchanging some big blows and hard leg kicks. Whittaker was the aggressor and controlled the center of the cage while implementing a heavy-pressure style. Costa’s leg was already battered just three minutes into the fight. Whittaker was doing a great job cutting off angles while finding his own to land clean. As the round progressed Whittaker got in his groove and started to land combinations as opposed to Costa’s one-and-done shots. With just five seconds left in the round, Costa landed a spinning wheel kick flush on Whittaker’s temple, wobbling him to end the round.
Robert Whittaker got right back to his game plan and looked fresh to start the second round. Whittaker landed his signature 1-2 head kick but Costa just smiled back at the former champion. Both men were exchanging bombs and taking them right on the chin, with Whittaker’s face being covered in blood and Costa’s shin bruising. Whittaker’s jab started to land effectively and consistently, and he followed with the left hook many times.
Round three seemed to be a winner-takes-all situation, with Costa coming forward and looking strong early. As the round progressed Whittaker continued to land the left hand and leg kick at will. Things slowed down after a hot first two rounds, but the two were still exchanging blows consistently. Whittaker controlled the fight for most of round three and seemed to have the edge going to the scorecards.
The scorecards read 29-28 across the board to give Robert Whittaker a big win. He called for a rematch with Dricus du Plessis following his impressive performance.
UFC Fighters React to a Back and Forth War Between Costa and Whittaker
Featured Image Credit to Embed from Getty Images
