Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker is reportedly slated to make his move to the light heavyweight division. His debut in the 205-pound weight class is expected to be against the experienced 42-fight veteran, Nikita Krylov.
Whittaker, who last competed in July 2025 and subsequently announced his intention to move up in weight, has been in discussions for his next outing. While initially rumored to face Magomed Ankalaev, it now appears that “The Reaper” will welcome Nikita Krylov to the Octagon at UFC 329.
The event is scheduled to take place on July 11 during International Fight Week at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Whittaker boasts an impressive UFC record of 17 wins and 7 losses, with an overall professional record of 27 wins and 9 losses. His resume includes significant victories over notable opponents like Paulo Costa, Yoel Romero, and Kelvin Gastelum.
Nikita Krylov, also known as “The Miner,” recently returned to winning ways at UFC 324 in January, securing a third-round finish. Krylov has been a consistent presence in the UFC’s light heavyweight division since 2018, with past wins against fighters such as Alexander Gustafsson, Ryan Spann, and Johnny Walker. The 33-year-old Ukrainian holds a UFC record of 12 wins and 9 losses, and a professional record of 31 wins and 11 losses.