MMA Preview – Robert Whittaker vs Ikram Aliskerov at UFC on ABC 6
Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!
ROBERT WHITTAKER VS IKRAM ALISKEROV FACTS
When is UFC on ABC 6? Saturday 22nd June, 2024 - 18:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC on ABC 6? Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC on ABC 6? Click here to buy tickets for UFC on ABC 6
What channel is UFC on ABC 6 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC on ABC 6? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
ROBERT WHITTAKER VS IKRAM ALISKEROV LOWDOWN
Robert Whittaker (25-7) has not lost hopes of another title shot after bouncing back from a devastating loss. After losing his rematch with Israel Adesanya (2022) at UFC 271, he responded with a classy unanimous decision over Marvin Vettori (2022). He then got knocked out by Dricus du Plessis (2023) which was somewhat softened by seeing him go on to become the new champion. In true Whittaker fashion he replied with another solid performance and unanimous decision over Paulo Costa at UFC 296 in February.
Khamzat Chimaev was lined up for the Aussie is a mouthwatering match-up. However, he has had to pull out after getting hospitalized with another illness. Ikram Aliskerov (15-1) has been snatched from the UFC on ESPN 58 card last week to headline in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He is getting used to pull-outs, but he continues to slay everyone in his way. He made his first two UFC appearances last year starching Phil Hawes and serving Warlley Alves a flying knee to extend his streak to seven.
ROBERT WHITTAKER VS IKRAM ALISKEROV PREDICTION
Although Whittaker has been preparing for a similar yet better opponent, this is still a huge risk for him. Aliskerov has nothing to lose and is extremely dangerous. He is a grappling beast and has the weapons to cause the upset and earn the biggest win of his career.
Whittaker will have been drilling his wrestling relentlessly in camp and if he gets too concerned with the takedown, we can see him getting clipped on the feet. He is the better striker, but like du Plessis, Aliskerov has the power and explosiveness to put him away.
On paper, Whittaker should take this all day. He has the defensive wrestling to keep the fight on the feet, the striking to humble the Russian and the championship-level experience to put it all together. That said, we can see Aliskerov causing the upset.
An Aliskerov knockout is more likely than him bagging the rounds with his grappling. An upset is on the cards, but going from preparing for Antonio Trocoli over three rounds to the former champion over five on a week’s notice is too much of an ask at this stage of his career.
Prediction: Whittaker via Decision
Value Bet: Aliskerov to win
