The UFC 308 co-main event in Abu Dhabi brings a thrilling clash between former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker and the undefeated rising star Khamzat Chimaev. Whittaker, known for his striking precision and resilience, returns to the octagon aiming to reestablish his title contention after years at the top of the division. With notable wins over elite opponents like Yoel Romero and Jared Cannonier, Whittaker's experience and technical prowess are undeniable. Facing him is Khamzat Chimaev, a Swedish wrestling powerhouse and one of the UFC’s most talked-about prospects. Undefeated in his professional career, Chimaev’s blend of relentless wrestling and knockout power has made him a formidable presence in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. Known for finishing fights quickly and decisively, Chimaev’s intense grappling and aggressiveness present a unique challenge for Whittaker.

Robert Whittaker (26-7-0)

Nickname: "The Reaper / Bobby Knuckles"
Age: 33
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 186 lbs
Style: Striker with a diverse skill set, combining effective striking with solid takedown defense.
Association: PMA Super Martial Arts
Record Breakdown:

* KO/TKO Wins: 10 (38%)
* Submission Wins: 5 (19%)
* Decision Wins: 11 (42%)
* Losses: 7 (3 by KO/TKO, 1 by Submission, 3 by Decision)

Last Five Fights:

* Win vs. Ikram Aliskerov (KO) - UFC on ABC 6 (Jun 22, 2024)
* Win vs. Paulo Costa (Decision) - UFC 298 (Feb 17, 2024)
* Loss vs. Dricus Du Plessis (TKO) - UFC 290 (Jul 08, 2023)
* Win vs. Marvin Vettori (Decision) - UFC Fight Night 209 (Sep 03, 2022)
* Loss vs. Israel Adesanya (Decision) - UFC 271 (Feb 12, 2022)

Pathway to Victory for Whittaker:
Whittaker's strategy will likely focus on maintaining distance and utilizing his exceptional footwork to avoid Chimaev's takedown attempts. He should aim to counter strike effectively, targeting Chimaev's head and body while being mindful of his opponent's powerful strikes. Whittaker's experience in five-round fights could prove advantageous if the bout goes the distance.

Khamzat Chimaev (13-0-0)

Nickname: "Borz"
Age: 30
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 186 lbs
Style: Versatile fighter known for his grappling prowess and aggressive striking.
Association: Allstars Training Center
Record Breakdown:

* KO/TKO Wins: 6 (46%)
* Submission Wins: 5 (38%)
* Decision Wins: 2 (15%)
* Losses: 0 (0 by KO/TKO, 0 by Submission, 0 by Decision)

Last Five Fights:

* Win vs. Kamaru Usman (Decision) - UFC 294 (Oct 21, 2023)
* Win vs. Kevin Holland (Submission) - UFC 279 (Sep 10, 2022)
* Win vs. Gilbert Burns (Decision) - UFC 273 (Apr 09, 2022)
* Win vs. Jingliang Li (Technical Submission) - UFC 267 (Oct 30, 2021)
* Win vs. Gerald Meerschaert (KO) - UFC Fight Night 178 (Sep 19, 2020)

Pathway to Victory for Chimaev:
Chimaev's best approach will be to pressure Whittaker early and look for takedowns to nullify the striking threat. He should aim to use his size and strength to overwhelm Whittaker in grappling exchanges and potentially secure a submission or ground-and-pound finish. Chimaev's ability to mix his striking with wrestling will be crucial in keeping Whittaker off balance.

Prediction

Both fighters bring elite skills to the octagon, with Whittaker's striking finesse clashing against Chimaev's all-around game. While Whittaker has the advantage in experience and striking volume, Chimaev's relentless pressure and grappling could prove decisive. If Chimaev can implement his game plan effectively and avoid getting caught in Whittaker's counters, he may very well emerge victorious.

Prediction: Khamzat Chimaev wins via Decision.