'I am the boogeyman': Robert Whittaker produces 'devastating' first-round knockout as UFC title shot nears
Robert Whittaker has put the UFC middleweight division on notice, producing a "devastating" first-round victory over Ikram Aliskerov on Sunday morning (AEST).
After his initial opponent, the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev, pulled out due to illness, the Australian brawler took the fight against a dangerous Aliskerov on short notice.
Whittaker showed no signs of a lack of preparation however, getting through a brief feeling-out process before landing some lovely shots to stagger the Russian.
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A misplaced head kick didn't cause Whittaker to panic, backing Aliskerov up against the cage and dropping him with a lethal uppercut before the referee waved it off.
Former champion Michael Bisping was in awe of Whittaker's knockout on commentary.
"Unbelievable ... Robert Whittaker does it again and does it in style," he said.
Robert Whittaker celebrates his first-round win over Ikram Aliskerov. Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
"At his devastating finest, he is an absolute monster. That was perfect and that was trademark Robert Whittaker right there. He knew he had him hurt.
"He proved again that he is one of the best we have ever seen. He is one of the best in the world, it's not just words with him."
The 33-year-old ended a seven-fight winning run for his opponent and in the process, moved closer to a championship opportunity in the 185lb division.
Speaking post-fight, Whittaker said he would be ready to go again at UFC 305 in Perth.
"I'm healthy, I'm hearty, let's go," he said.
Robert Whittaker lays in some heavy strikes to stop Ikram Aliskerov. Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
"I told you, I told everybody, I am the boogeyman, I am the best in the world and the most dangerous man in this division.
"I'm the best in the world. I'll take a fight against anyone, anywhere, anytime. I've been in this position 100 times, I am the hunter and that's exactly what I did.
UFC legend Daniel Cormier believes it could make sense for Whittaker to place himself as a back-up to the title clash between Israel Adesanya and Dricus du Plessis.
"It's two months until Perth ... maybe that dude turns around as a back-up," he said.
"He said it will be down, maybe now it's a possibility"
Robert Whittaker's UFC career in pictures: The early setbacks that helped pave the way for Australia's first world champion
Robert Whittaker's UFC career in pictures: The early setbacks that helped pave the way for Australia's first world champion
Whittaker has already lost to both Adesanya and du Plessis earlier in his career, but his recent run of performances inside the octagon will certainly put him in the frame for a rematch against either man, depending who walks out with the gold in Australia.
Whittaker champion beat a well-respected Paulo Costa earlier in the year and sits near the top of the middleweight rankings as he looks to become a two-time champ.
