Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker has his sights set on a matchup that fans have long wanted to see. The 34-year-old Australian revealed he wants to face Sean Strickland when the UFC returns to Sydney in February 2026.
Whittaker’s Callout
Speaking on his MMArcade Podcast, Whittaker (26-9 MMA, 17-7 UFC) made it clear who he’d like across the octagon next.
“I want to fight in Sydney next February. That’s when I’d like to fight next,” Whittaker said. “I’d love to fight Strickland. I’ve been wanting that fight for a while. I think it’d be a good fight. He always brings people to cards. I don’t think he’ll come all the way to Australia. But let’s see what happens.”
Currently ranked No. 7 in the UFC middleweight division, Whittaker is looking to rebound after back-to-back defeats to Reinier de Ridder and Khamzat Chimaev. The former champion has admitted that another title run may be “a pipe dream,” but the Strickland fight represents a marquee matchup with significant fan intrigue.
Strickland’s Status
Strickland (29-7 MMA, 16-7 UFC), ranked No. 4 at middleweight, has not competed since February when he lost a unanimous decision to Dricus Du Plessis in their UFC 312 rematch. His return to the octagon has been delayed due to a suspension from the Nevada State Athletic Commission, after an incident where he entered a cage at a regional show and brawled with another fighter.
The 34-year-old is eligible to return in 2025 if he fulfills the commission’s requirements, which could align with Whittaker’s desired timeline.
Why the Fight Makes Sense
Both men have carried the middleweight division through memorable eras:
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Whittaker was the division’s king from 2017-2019 and has consistently been a top contender.
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Strickland shocked the world in 2023 when he dethroned Israel Adesanya before briefly holding the title.
Stylistically, the matchup is fascinating Whittaker’s sharp, technical striking against Strickland’s high-pressure volume boxing and mental warfare.
What’s Next
With Whittaker eager to fight on home soil and Strickland’s suspension potentially ending in time for a Sydney card, the timing may finally line up. The UFC has yet to confirm its 2026 international schedule, but if both sides push for it, Whittaker vs. Strickland could deliver a high-profile showdown for Australian fans.
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Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
