5 best Robert Whittaker performances in the UFC

#4. Robert Whittaker vs. Kelvin Gastelum – UFC Vegas 24

Robert Whittaker took a year-long hiatus following his disappointing KO loss to Israel Adesanya at UFC 243. In the months after his devastating defeat against 'The Last Stylebender', it was revealed that Whittaker was "burnt out" and seemingly out of love for the sport.

He made a successful return to action against Darren Till in 2020 and returned to the win column with a unanimous decision victory. He subsequently beat top contender Jared Cannonier to solidify his status as the clear second-best fighter in the middleweight division behind Adesanya, the reigning champ.

Whittaker would've received a title shot on the back of his wins over Till and Cannonier, but opted to take on one more fight before considering a rematch with Adesanya. The Australian took on Kelvin Gastelum in the main event of UFC Vegas 24.

Robert Whittaker put in a masterful performance against Kelvin Gastelum. Whittaker was clearly the quicker fighter and beat Gastelum to the punch in all the striking exchanges. The Aussie mixed in takedowns and delivered a steady dose of kicks to the legs and body.

Gastelum connected at times, but struggled to string together combinations. He had trouble with the movement and range of the former champion and for every strike he landed, Whittaker landed two or three.

Gastelum was outclassed throughout the fight, but continued to press forward. The bout went the distance, but it was a convincing win for Whittaker. 'The Reaper' dominated every round en route to a unanimous decision victory.

Soon after his masterful display against Kelvin Gastelum, Robert Whittaker called for a shot at the title and a rematch against Israel Adesanya.

Whittaker's performance showed that he is the clear-cut No.1 contender at 185 lbs.

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#3. Robert Whittaker vs. Brad Tavares – UFC Fight Night 65

At UFC Fight Night: Miocic vs. Hunt in 2015, Robert Whittaker squared off against Brad Tavares in the co-main event. Both fighters were looking to climb the ranks at middleweight and the winner was expected to break into the top 10 at 185 lbs.

Many believed it would be a competitive fight, considering both fighters' reputations for being incredibly durable.

The fight lasted just 44 seconds as Whittaker pieced up Tavares with his impeccable striking. 'The Reaper' secured a TKO finish inside the first minute to pick up his second straight victory in the middleweight division.

Whittaker's statement-making win over Tavares set the tone for his run in the middleweight division. Additionally, he started garnering a cult following among MMA fans for his all-action approach and anti-wrestling style of fighting.

Watch his post-fight interview with Jon Anik below: