Australia’s former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker has suffered a devastating first-round submission loss to unbeaten Khamzat Chimaev.
Whittaker’s prospects of securing one other world title shot nosedived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday morning (AEDT), after he tapped out on the 3:34 mark of the opening spherical.
The 33-year-old Australian landed a few leg kicks however did not have the prospect to throw a punch, as he was taken down after simply 15 seconds.
He scrambled exhausting alongside the cage in an try to flee the clutches of the UAE-based Russian fighter, however appeared to endure an harm to his chin or jaw in the course of the decisive choke transfer.
“I felt one thing unsuitable, a click on,” Chimaev stated.
“Thanks Rob. I like you my brother — you’re a legend, I respect you took the combat with me as a result of no-one desires to combat with me.”
It was solely the second time Whittaker had been submitted and the primary time in 13 years.
Famend wrestler Chimaev, 30, began the combat as favorite regardless of being ranked thirteenth, 10 locations beneath the Sydneysider.
They had been initially on account of combat in June, however Chimaev withdrew after falling ailing.
He improved his report to 14-0.
It was solely Whittaker’s fourth loss in his final 19 fights over a 10-year interval, however casts doubt over whether or not he’ll ever get one other title alternative.
AAP
