Robert Whittaker Plans Final Four Fights
Former UFC Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker has signaled that his fighting career is nearing its end. He publicly stated he plans to retire after just four more fights, aiming to finish at the top of the sport in his early to mid 30s. At a recent gym interview, Whittaker revealed this retirement roadmap, expressing his desire to step away around age 36 and explore roles like coaching or even becoming a fireman post career (Instagram). Analysts and fellow fighters such as Caio Borralho noted that Whittaker is positioning his final chapters strategically, choosing opponents that would elevate his legacy before stepping into retirement (Facebook).
Ilia Topuria Sets Sights on Islam Makhachev
Undefeated UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria (17-0) has made it clear his top ambition is a showdown with former champion Islam Makhachev (27-1), despite Makhachev’s current pursuit of the welterweight title (CBSSports.com). Topuria remarked that while he won’t wait around, Makhachev remains his preferred opponent for the legacy setting fight. He emphasized that the outcome of Makhachev’s welterweight challenge against Jack Della Maddalena would determine when or if that match happens (MMA Fighting).
Meanwhile, many in the MMA community including UFC President Dana White are treating a Topuria vs. Makhachev mega fight as inevitable once Makhachev returns to lightweight after his welterweight bid (YouTube, TalkSPORT). Even Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, has praised Topuria and acknowledged its promotional potential, while indicating a willingness to proceed if the fight aligns with the UFC’s plans (bjpenn.com). Though Arman Tsarukyan is campaigning to challenge Topuria next, many believe the matchup with Makhachev remains the true blockbuster call (TalkSPORT).
Tom Aspinall Dominance Acknowledged by Dwayne Johnson
At the UFC Hall of Fame ceremony, Hollywood icon and former WWE superstar Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson jokingly admitted that he’d stand “no chance” against Tom Aspinall, the undisputed UFC Heavyweight Champion. Johnson quipped that a fight would end with a knockout in about eight seconds, underscoring Aspinall’s fearsome striking power and the gap between pro entertainment and elite MMA (bloodyelbow.com).
Aspinall has risen rapidly, capitalizing on Jon Jones’ retirement to become champion. His speed, footwork, and finishing ability have garnered widespread respect. Analysts, and even Joe Rogan, noted that Aspinall has the tools to “clear out the heavyweight top 10,” with fans thrilled by his dominance in the Octagon (Wikipedia, sportskeeda.com, reddit.com).
Summary Table
| Fighter | Status/Ambition |
|---|---|
| Robert Whittaker | Plans four fights before retiring around age 36; considering post career roles |
| Ilia Topuria | Dominant 17‑0 lightweight champion; targeting Islam Makhachev next |
| Islam Makhachev | Currently pursuing welterweight title; potential legacy fight vs. Topuria |
| Tom Aspinall | UFC Heavyweight Champion praised for dominance; even “The Rock” joked he’d be KO’d in 8 seconds |
MMA Landscape: High Stakes, Legacy, and Legacies
Whittaker looks to secure his final victories before leaving the sport with dignity and legacy. That binocular view of retirement shows the mentality of a veteran who’s carefully planning his exit.
Topuria’s meteoric rise into lightweight and featherweight titles positions him as a generational contender aiming to cement status but only a mega fight with Makhachev will truly validate his ascension.(Globedge).
Aspinall’s extraordinary tenure scored with KOs, speed, and uncanny athleticism has elevated him into discussions as the most dominant Heavyweight in recent memory. That even the charismatic “Rock” made self-deprecating remarks paints a clear image: his power is no joke.
With Whittaker’s planned farewell, Topuria’s ambition, and Aspinall’s ascension, UFC’s future continues to rotate on transitions of champions, new rivalries, and dreams of defining legacies.
