Robert Whittaker has refuted speculation about a potential matchup with Magomed Ankalaev. The post is part of a news roundup that also includes other updates: Dana White commented favorably on Arman Tsarukyan's current activity level, noting that to earn a title shot, Tsarukyan simply needs to avoid acting 'like a maniac.' Tsarukyan himself stated that Islam Makhachev will likely retire after a couple more fights, and that he expects to dominate the sport and become the face of the UFC within a year. The summary also mentions Michael Bisping and Daniel Cormier becoming coaches on the next season of The Ultimate Fighter, and Khamzat Chimaev making someone tap in 40 seconds during training.
Robert Whittaker has stepped forward to shut down speculation linking him to a fight with Magomed Ankalaev, denying that any such matchup is in the works as of April 9, 2026.
The denial arrives amid a busy news cycle across the sport. Arman Tsarukyan drew positive words from UFC president Dana White, who suggested the Armenian lightweight contender is staying active and that a title shot is within reach — so long as he avoids erratic behavior. Tsarukyan himself made bold predictions, stating that lightweight champion Islam Makhachev will likely retire after just a few more fights and that he expects to become the face of the UFC within a year.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1-0 record and currently sits atop both the welterweight division and the pound-for-pound rankings as champion. The Russian finisher averages 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and lands strikes at a 58 percent accuracy clip, making him one of the most complete fighters in the sport today.
Elsewhere, Michael Bisping and Daniel Cormier are set to serve as coaches on the next season of The Ultimate Fighter. Bisping, 47, compiled a 30-9-0 professional record during his career and is a former UFC middleweight champion. His return to the Octagon environment in a coaching capacity pairs him with Cormier for what figures to be a compelling season.
Finally, Khamzat Chimaev added another highlight to his training resume, submitting a sparring partner in just 40 seconds. The 32-year-old middleweight ranked first in his division and tenth pound-for-pound, Chimaev carries a 15-1-0 record and averages an eye-catching 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside a 60 percent striking accuracy rate.
Why it matters
- Whittaker's denial leaves the light heavyweight picture at 205 pounds unsettled with Ankalaev's next opponent still unclear
- Tsarukyan's public confidence and White's endorsement signal the Armenian contender is firmly in the lightweight title conversation
- Chimaev's continued dominance in training keeps him relevant as the top-ranked middleweight contender
