Jacaré praises Whittaker, but bets on Romero at UFC 213: 'He's stronger'

Jacaré believes that Romero will beat Whittaker (Photo: Reproduction/Facebook UFC)

This Saturday (08), at UFC 213,  Yoel romero e Robert whittaker, two old acquaintances of Ronaldo Jacare, will compete for the interim middleweight belt (up to 84kg). The two fighters are responsible for the Brazilian's only defeats in Ultimate: the Cuban defeated him at UFC 194, in December 2015, while the Australian knocked out the Espírito Santo fighter in April this year, at UFC Kansas City. Asked about his prediction for the fight for the category title, Jacaré did not hesitate when it came to naming a favorite.

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“I think Romero wins this fight. He is stronger, keeps his distance well and is very calm. Whittaker can surprise him and win because he is very fast for the middleweight. But I bet on Romero”, declared the Brazilian, in an interview with the website 'MMA Fighting' (USA).

The lineal middleweight champion is Michael Bisping, who last performed in October 2016 and doesn't even have a date to return to the octagon. However, the organization's decision to put an interim belt on the line pleased Jacaré. For him, who is already thinking about his return, the important thing is that the category does not remain hostage to English.

"Better late than never. Whittaker is a great champion and deserved the chance. I'm happy for him. Romero also proved himself worthy by knocking out Weidman. They deserve to fight for the interim belt and then catch Bisping. The category is finally moving. I’m going to get my title shot again,” he concluded.

In the UFC since 2013, Jacaré fought nine fights in the organization, winning seven and losing two. In total, he has a record of 24 wins, five losses and no contest.

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