R. Whittaker can return to training in four weeks. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @robwhittakermma
Robert whittaker was chosen to defend the middleweight belt (84 kg) against Kelvin Gastelum at UFC 234. However, the New Zealander had to abandon the event in Melbourne (AUS) after being diagnosed with a hernia in the abdomen and undergoing emergency surgery on Saturday (09). Last Wednesday, 'Bobby Knuckles' was released from the hospital.
In an interview with the North American channel ESPN's website, the middleweight champion's manager, Titus Day, revealed that Whittaker will be ready to fight between June and August.
“I would say he could fight sometime between June and August, depending on his recovery. I hope closer to June”, said Day.
Despite medical clearance, Whittaker is not allowed to return to his home in Sydney and will have to remain in Melbourne until Monday (18). For now, Robert cannot make any physical effort, but he will be able to return to light training in four weeks.
On his YouTube channel, the middleweight champion declared that he does not know which fighter will be chosen by the UFC to be the next challenger for the belt. However, Robert assured that Israel adesanya had an excellent performance and qualified for a title fight after victory over Anderson Silva by unanimous decision.
"I'm not worried. I don't know what the UFC wants to do with Gastelum and Adesanya now because obviously I've heard a lot of things. As the UFC wants to line up Gastelum or Adesanya… It could make them fight someone first”, said the New Zealander.
