Khamzat Chimaev cautions fans not to overlook Robert Whittaker’s skills ahead of their highly anticipated Abu Dhabi clash.

At UFC 308 inside Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena, Whittaker was quickly submitted by Khamzat Chimaev, who locked in a gruesome face crank that displaced the Australian former champion’s front teeth. Despite the nature of that loss, it is a different defeat that has ‘The Reaper’ wishing for a chance at a do-over.

Dricus du Plessis has a history of turning skepticism into victory, but Robert Whittaker thinks his current path could lead to defeat. Since becoming champion, the South African has held onto his title with two successful defences.

Reinier De Ridder eyes the winner of Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev title fight after defeating a former champion.

Khamzat Chimaev is currently preparing to face Dricus du Plessis in the main event of UFC 319 in his first UFC title fight. Following UFC 318, Chimaev has also been going back and forth with Paulo Costa after the former title challenger bounced back with a decisive win.

Nine of Chimaev's 14 professional MMA victories have come via first-round finish, and although 'Borz' has shown he can do well in fights outside of the first round, Whittaker believes that if the South African can survive Chimaev's early onslaught, he will retain his middleweight title.