Former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker expressed his disapproval of Israel Adesanya’s recent celebration mocking Alex Pereira’s son after his victory over Pereira at UFC 287.
Whittaker and Adesanya have faced off twice in the octagon before. Although neither has animosity toward the other, Whittaker undoubtedly does not agree with Adesanya’s latest gesture.
In an interview with Submission Radio, Whittaker stated that he does not find the celebration amusing.
He said: “Mate you don’t get revenge on a five-year-old. Any kid that has slighted me in the world, what am I doing? Writing [their names] in my book and then getting them back in 10 years’ time. Dude, Israel has a little black book of anybody that crosses him, he puts their name down.”
Adesanya’s celebration has received mixed opinions from the public.
Some fans consider it savage while others find it petty and unnecessary. However, Adesanya is known for his unapologetic attitude and is unlikely to be unbothered by the opinions of others.
Despite coming up short against Adesanya in their previous encounters, Whittaker revealed that he wants to take back the belt from Adesanya.
He stated that he was happy when Adesanya won against Pereira because it made him realize that his true desire is to compete against Adesanya and reclaim the title belt.
With Adesanya already defeating many of the contenders in the middleweight division, Whittaker may soon be given a final opportunity to challenge for the title.
Whittaker expressed his determination to compete against Adesanya and reclaim the belt. He indicates that he sees Adesanya as the ultimate opponent to test his skills against.