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Jan Blachowicz has shared his prediction for the rumored middleweight clash between Robert Whittaker and Paulo Costa.
The former light heavyweight champion will have his chance to win the title back when he stands across the octagon from Magomed Ankalaev in the year-ending pay-per-view event next month. Initially, the Pole was set to compete in a title eliminator bout, but circumstances changed, gifting him a golden opportunity.
On a recent episode of James Lynch's MMA Pros Pick, Jan Blachowicz gave his thoughts on the potential fight between Robert Whittaker and Paulo Costa, claiming that the Australian has too many tools inside the octagon compared to his opponent:
"Rob Whittaker, you know, yeah... He's got more tools inside the octagon than Paulo Costa. Paulo Costa is tough, he's very strong, but Robert Whittaker, he's got just more tools to beat him."
'The Reaper' has been nothing short of sensational since his permanent move to middleweight and is considered by many to be the second-best fighter in the division, after former champion Israel Adesanya.
He has proven this on multiple occasions by not just beating but dominating other top contenders. Aside from two losses to 'The Last Stylebender', Whittaker is unbeaten in the weight class.
His reported opponent, Paulo Costa, is also one of the current standouts at 185lbs and often brings the heat each and every time he steps into the octagon. Getting back in the winner's column with a decision over Luke Rockhold last time out, the Brazilian will be hoping to push on in search of a title shot.
Check out what Jan Blachowicz had to say about the rumored middleweight brawl in the video below:
How far away is Robert Whittaker from a title shot?
Despite falling short during his last shot at the title, Robert Whittaker arguably cannot keep knocking down contenders without being handed a shot, and it is likely he will be given his chance after one more win.
'Bobby Knuckles' has expressed interest in facing newly crowned champion Alex Pereira for the 185lbs throne, but it looks like the South American will first offer Israel Adesanya his chance to recapture the strap.
Whether it's Paulo Costa or another highly ranked competitor, Robert Whittaker will likely be next in line for a shot if he manages to pull off yet another elite display in his next appearance.
