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Michael Bisping, the former UFC middleweight champion turned analyst, has raised concerns about Khamzat Chimaev's upcoming matchup against Robert Whittaker in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Bisping's insights shed light on the potential challenges Chimaev might face, especially in the championship rounds, making this fight a must-watch for MMA fans worldwide.
The highly anticipated showdown between Chimaev (13-0) and Whittaker (25-7) is set to take place in a five-round headliner on June 22, airing on ABC. This marks Chimaev's first five-round fight in his UFC career, a factor that Bisping believes could significantly impact the outcome of the bout.
During a segment on his "Believe You Me" podcast, Bisping expressed his concerns regarding Chimaev's stamina and endurance against an experienced fighter like Whittaker. He stated,
"Automatically if you’re in the corner of Khamzat Chimaev, you’ve got to be concerned. One thing Robert Whittaker is not going to do is run out of gas. He’s a very, very experienced fighter fighting at the highest level for a long time."
Bisping's analysis delves into the tactical aspects of the fight, highlighting Chimaev's aggressive style and tendency to dominate early in his bouts. However, he also pointed out Chimaev's past fights against top-tier opponents like Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns, where he showed signs of slowing down in later rounds. Against Whittaker, known for his endurance and ability to go the distance, Bisping believes this could pose a significant challenge for Chimaev if he fails to secure an early finish.
Whittaker's track record in championship rounds adds another layer of complexity to the matchup. Having gone the full 25 minutes multiple times, including impressive victories over formidable opponents like Yoel Romero, Whittaker has showcased his ability to maintain a high pace and tactical approach throughout extended fights.
The Riyadh event promises to be a thrilling spectacle for MMA fans, with Chimaev looking to solidify his status as a rising star in the sport and Whittaker aiming to reclaim his position at the top of the middleweight division.