A fight between Robert Whittaker (17-7 UFC) and Nikita Krylov (12-9 UFC) is being developed for UFC 329, scheduled for July 12. This bout would represent Whittaker's first appearance at light heavyweight in the UFC after a long career competing at middleweight. Krylov has compiled a 12-9 record in the UFC competing exclusively at 205 pounds. The matchup offers Whittaker an opportunity to test himself at a new weight class against an experienced divisional veteran. No official announcement has been made, but the bout is currently in the works according to the source.
A light heavyweight debut for Robert Whittaker is reportedly in the works, with sources indicating the UFC is developing a matchup between the Australian veteran and Ukraine's Nikita Krylov for UFC 329, scheduled for July 11.
Whittaker, known as "The Reaper," carries an overall professional record of 27-9 and is currently ranked sixth in the middleweight division. The 35-year-old from Australia stands six feet tall with a 73-inch reach and has built his career entirely at 185 pounds. A volume striker who lands 4.39 significant strikes per minute, Whittaker moving up to 205 pounds would represent a significant shift in his UFC trajectory.
Krylov, nicknamed "The Miner," is a seasoned light heavyweight who owns a 31-11 professional record and sits at number 13 in the divisional rankings. The 34-year-old Ukrainian stands six-foot-three with a 77-inch reach — advantages that will loom large in any physical comparison with Whittaker. Krylov lands 4.36 significant strikes per minute at a 54 percent accuracy rate and adds a consistent threat on the ground, averaging 2.05 takedowns and 1.2 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
No official announcement has been made, and the bout should be treated as unconfirmed until the UFC formally books it.
Why it matters
- Whittaker's move to light heavyweight opens a new chapter for a former middleweight champion with little left to prove at 185 pounds
- A win over a ranked divisional veteran like Krylov could immediately position Whittaker within the 205-pound title conversation
- The size and reach gap — Krylov holds a three-inch height and four-inch reach advantage — adds a compelling physical dimension to what should be a high-volume striking contest
- Krylov's ground game against Whittaker, who averages virtually no submission attempts, represents a clear stylistic variable
Saturday, July 11, 2026
