Former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker faced off against Paulo Costa in the highly anticipated co-main event of UFC 298. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the thrilling matchup and its aftermath.

Whittaker and Costa engaged in a fierce battle inside the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, marking Whittaker’s return to the octagon since his TKO loss to Dricus Du Plessis. Meanwhile, Costa had been absent from competition since August 2022.

In the opening rounds, Whittaker showcased his striking prowess with well-timed leg kicks and stiff jabs. However, Costa retaliated with high head kicks and a spinning heel kick that momentarily stunned Whittaker towards the end of the first frame.

Despite Costa’s aggressive offense, Whittaker maintained composure and gradually increased his output as the fight progressed. While Costa remained dangerous throughout the bout, Whittaker’s calculated approach earned him a unanimous decision victory.

With this win, Whittaker solidifies his position in the UFC middleweight division, improving his professional MMA record to 25-7. He retains his number three ranking in the official UFC 185-pound rankings.

On the other hand, Costa, ranked sixth in the division, displayed resilience and skill despite falling short against Whittaker. While this loss may delay his pursuit of UFC gold, Costa remains a formidable opponent poised for future challenges in the octagon.

In conclusion, Robert Whittaker’s triumph over Paulo Costa at UFC 298 underscores his resilience and skill in the middleweight division. As Whittaker continues his journey towards reclaiming the championship belt, Costa remains a formidable contender with the potential for redemption in future matchups.