A bout between Nikita Krylov (UFC 12-9) and Robert Whittaker (UFC 17-7) is reportedly in the works for UFC 329 on July 12. This would mark Whittaker's debut at light heavyweight after competing his entire UFC career at middleweight. The report comes from Russian outlet Vestnik MMA citing their own sources. No official announcement has been made by the UFC. The post includes a poll asking fans to predict the winner.
According to a report from Russian outlet Vestnik MMA, citing their own sources, Robert Whittaker and Nikita Krylov are being targeted for a matchup at UFC 329 on July 12. No official confirmation from the UFC has been issued, and the bout should be treated as unconfirmed at this stage.
Whittaker, known as "The Reaper," carries a 27-9 record and has spent his entire UFC career at middleweight, where he currently sits ranked sixth in the division. The 35-year-old Australian stands six feet tall with a 73-inch reach and lands 4.39 significant strikes per minute. Should this fight come together, it would represent his first appearance at light heavyweight.
Krylov, the Ukrainian fighter nicknamed "The Miner," holds a 31-11 record and is ranked 13th in the light heavyweight division. The 34-year-old stands six-foot-three with a 77-inch reach and brings a well-rounded offensive game, landing 4.36 significant strikes per minute at 54 percent accuracy while also averaging 2.05 takedowns and 1.2 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Whittaker moving up to light heavyweight would be a significant career shift after years competing among middleweights
- A win over a ranked contender like Krylov could immediately establish Whittaker in the 205-pound picture
- The three-inch height and four-inch reach disadvantage Whittaker would face makes for a compelling stylistic question
- Krylov's mixed offensive threat — striking, takedowns, and submission attempts — contrasts with Whittaker's striker-first approach
Saturday, July 11, 2026
