According to Vestnik MMA sources, a fight between Nikita Krylov (UFC 12-9) and Robert Whittaker (UFC 17-7) is in the works for UFC 329 on July 12. This would mark Whittaker's debut at light heavyweight after a lengthy career competing at middleweight. The matchup represents a significant weight class move for the former middleweight champion Whittaker. Krylov, a long-time light heavyweight competitor, would face one of the sport's most accomplished fighters making the jump up in weight. Details are still being finalized but the bout appears likely for the July card.
A fight between Robert Whittaker and Nikita Krylov is being targeted for UFC 329 on July 12, according to Vestnik MMA sources. The matchup has not been officially confirmed, but the bout appears likely for the card.
The most notable element of the reported pairing is Whittaker's division change. The 35-year-old Australian, who competes out of PMA Super Martial Arts, has built his entire UFC career at middleweight, compiling a 27-9 record that includes a reign as champion. Ranked sixth in the middleweight division, Whittaker stands six feet tall with a 73-inch reach and lands 4.39 significant strikes per minute, making him one of the more active and accomplished strikers in the sport. A move to light heavyweight would be his first at that weight class inside the octagon.
Krylov, nicknamed The Miner, is a long-established presence at 205 pounds. The 34-year-old Ukrainian holds a 31-11 record and is ranked 13th in the light heavyweight division. Standing six-foot-three with a 77-inch reach, Krylov is a physically imposing presence and brings a diverse offensive game, averaging 4.36 significant strikes per minute alongside 2.05 takedowns and 1.2 submission attempts per 15 minutes, with a 54 percent striking accuracy.
Why it matters
- Whittaker would enter the light heavyweight division for the first time, giving him a fresh path in a new weight class
- A win over a decorated former champion could significantly boost Krylov's ranking at 205 pounds, where he currently sits 13th
- The size and reach advantages Krylov holds — three inches in height and four inches in reach — add an interesting physical dimension to the stylistic matchup between two high-output orthodox strikers
Saturday, July 11, 2026
