'Most likely fight to make': Robert Whittaker eyes UFC return against polarising American

Robert Whittaker has revealed he plans to return to the UFC in the middle of the year, while also naming his "most likely" opponent in a fresh interview.

The former middleweight champion last fought in October, suffering a gruesome loss against Khamzat Chimaev in the first round.

Whittaker has since spent time away from the cage to regroup, but is slowly ramping up preparations for his bid to get back in the title hunt.

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Speaking to the On Paper Podcast, the 34-year-old revealed he hoped to be back in the octagon in June, which could coincide with International Fight Week in Las Vegas.

"I've been working on some things and some new skill sets," Whittaker said.

"I want to come back this year in June, that's when I want to put my hand up to fight.

"It gives me a good amount of time to keep doing what I'm doing, but also ease into a camp, and camp properly to come in as my best self."

Whittaker (26-8) is one of Australia's most accomplished mixed martial artists after becoming the first fighter to win gold in the UFC from this country.

As for who Whittaker challenges next, it appears as though polarising American star Sean Strickland is on his hit list.

"I think Strickland makes a good argument," the Aussie star said.

"We've both been in that top sort of pond for a while, circling each other, but for whatever reason we haven't been matched up.

"We've both been in proximity for a while and it's most likely the fight to make. I'm excited by that fight, I look at his style and I find it curious … he's a tough dude."

Strickland most recently competed at UFC 312 in Sydney, losing to Dricus Du Plessis in the main event for the middleweight strap.