Robert Whittaker has announced plans to step up to the light heavyweight division for his next fight, aiming to compete at 205 pounds. He is targeting a June debut at this new weight class, believing the move suits his physique and career phase.
Whittaker revealed to Submission Radio,
“I’m locking in for June. I want to get in there. I want to fight again. I want to fight in June at 205 most likely.”
Adjusting Physique and Training for a New Weight Class
Though Whittaker is best known as a former welterweight and middleweight fighter, he feels his natural body size aligns better with light heavyweight. During his previous career stages, his walking weight has been well above 205 pounds, allowing him to transition comfortably without extreme weight cuts.
He shared that he typically weighs around 108 kilograms (238 pounds) while off-training, underscoring his confidence in competing at 205 pounds. Whittaker also mentioned plans to build lean muscle mass for his new division.
He said,
“I’m going to try and put on a little bit of muscle, but I’m not going to put too much,”
and added,
“I walk around heavy anyway. I’m heavy. I walk around like 107, 108 (kilos), just cruising. Obviously that’s not shredded, so I want to try and bring that back, shred up, just train fed, train fully fueled, and get the most out of my camps, and come into fight week feeling good for once.”
Addressing Doubts About His Size at Light Heavyweight
Whittaker is aware some critics doubt his ability to compete effectively at light heavyweight due to his prior weight classes. He firmly rejected these concerns, expressing determination to prove himself in this division as his career approaches its later stage.
He stated,
“I’m going to give it a go. I know a lot of naysayers, small this, small that. Shut up, dude. I want to give it a go. I’m on the tail end of my career, so I’ve got to try rather than just thinking about what ifs.”
The Importance and Potential Impact of This Career Move
Robert Whittaker’s shift to light heavyweight could redefine his fighting trajectory, offering a fresh chapter as he faces new opponents in a higher weight division. This change allows him to preserve physical health by avoiding harsher weight cuts and could enhance his in-cage performance due to better nutrition and recovery.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely in June to see how Whittaker adapts to the challenges of light heavyweight competition and whether he can establish himself as a top contender in this weight class.
