In a highly anticipated matchup at UFC 298, Robert Whittaker proved why he is one of the top fighters in the middleweight division by defeating Paulo Costa in a thrilling battle. Whittaker showcased his superior striking skills and impeccable takedown defense throughout the fight, frustrating Costa and preventing him from implementing his aggressive game plan.
Despite Costa's relentless pressure and powerful strikes, Whittaker remained composed and calculated, using his speed and precision to outmaneuver his opponent. The Australian fighter's technical prowess was on full display as he landed crisp combinations and counterattacks that kept Costa on the defensive.
 Alexander Volkanovski and Ilia Topuria entered the Octagon, Whittaker and Costa clashed inside the Honda Center in Anaheim, California on Saturday night. It was Whittaker's first fight since his second-round TKO loss to the current UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis last year. Costa missed all of 2023. and hadn't competed since August 2022.
A staple of the UFC middleweight division for half a decade, the last few years of Costa’s career have been defined more by his inactivity than the in-cage performances. Heading into this fight off an 18-month layoff, Costa will need to overcome any ring rust if he hopes to get a win and back in the title picture.
Costa last fought in August 2022 defeating former titleholder Luke Rockhold.  He and Whittaker was tied to a fight at UFC 284 in February 2023, but Costa disputed the fight announcement saying he never signed a bout agreement.  A year later, the fight finally happened.  
Costa lands his jab.  Whittaker bounced on the outside.  Whittaker connected with back-to-back jabs.  Whittaker landed a clean counter right hand.  He landed a left hand and Costa responded with a right hand.  
With the win, Whittaker improves his pro MMA record to 25-7. The former middleweight ruler will be holding onto his number three spot on the official UFC 185-pound rankings.
As for the number six-ranked Costa, he put forth a solid effort against "The Reaper." While it's another bump in the road on his quest for UFC gold, "Borrachinha" figures to be in for a solid opponent in his next outing.
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