UFC 271: Israel Adesanya defeats 'aggressive' Robert Whittaker for the 2nd time

Nigeria's Israel Adesanya recorded a unanimous decision victory against Robert Whittaker to retain his Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Middleweight title in the early hours of Sunday, February 13, 2022.

Unlike the first fight, it went the full five rounds with both producing a high-level contest.

Adesanya took the first round with ease but Whittaker responded to the challenge.

The middle rounds were even as Adesanya hinted he hurt his right hand. The Nigerian was trying to set up Whittaker for the jab who was cautious in his approach.

As the rounds progressed, Whittaker was able to take down Adesanya on four out of eight occasions.

The fight went down to the judges scorecard as the round were close even though Whittaker finished the fight strong.

The judges scored the fight (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) in favor of Adesanya who was not at his best.

Adesanya will now likely face off against Jared Cannonier in his next fight later this year.

Cannonier recorded an impressive knockout win against Derek Brunson in an undercard fight.