Robert Whittaker calls Joe Rogan’s UFC 329 fight commentary ‘upsetting’

Robert Whittaker has pushed back against Joe Rogan's mid-fight commentary during his UFC 329 knockout win over Nikita Krylov at light heavyweight, calling the analyst's appraisal "a little upsetting."

Whittaker marked his debut at 205 pounds with an impressive third-round finish of Krylov in July, breaking the veteran's jaw and snapping a two-fight skid at middleweight. However, Rogan's live analysis drew criticism from Whittaker, particularly remarks about his physique and a suggestion that Krylov had discovered "the blueprint" to beat him early in the contest.

"I don't understand where that blueprint was," Whittaker told Bedtime MMA, noting the commentary sparked widespread mockery on social media. The former champion acknowledged a slow first round but attributed it partly to nerves surrounding his move up to 205 pounds and the doubters questioning the shift. Still, he emphasized his physical readiness: walking in at 103 kilos (227 pounds) while retaining his speed, he dominated exchanges on the feet and repeatedly hurt Krylov whenever they traded strikes.

Whittaker detailed adjustments he plans to make at his new weight class, including refining his hydration protocol and utilizing his footwork more effectively. He expressed comfort with his light heavyweight debut and hunger for another bout before year's end, naming Jan Blachowicz, Khalil Rountree, and Bogdan Guskov as potential opponents. The "Reaper"—a former welterweight and middleweight champion—is content letting the UFC pair him with whoever is available, noting that a single impressive light heavyweight win can propel fighters into title conversations. He also highlighted Paulo Costa, another middleweight transplant, as an intriguing option after Costa's strong promotional debut.

Rogan's commentary did warm as the fight progressed and Whittaker's dominance became undeniable, though the initial criticism left its mark on fighter and fanbase alike.