Robert Whittaker stops Nikita Krylov in light heavyweight debut at UFC 329

Robert Whittaker marked a successful debut in the light heavyweight division with a third-round stoppage of Nikita Krylov at UFC 329 on July 12, 2026, held at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. After a strong showing, Whittaker effectively neutralized Krylov's early attempts and delivered a striking clinic, ultimately leading to Krylov withdrawing from the fight with a suspected jaw injury just over a minute into the third round. This fight comes after Whittaker's inconsistent performances in the middleweight category, where he lost four of his last seven fights, including two consecutive defeats. Whittaker declared his commitment to the light heavyweight class post-fight, indicating a shift in his career focus.

• 1:23 AMYahoo Sports — UFC 329 results: Robert Whittaker shatters Nikita Krylov's jaw in sensational light heavyweight debut
• 1:12 AMCBS Sports — UFC 329: Robert Whittaker stops Nikita Krylov in a striking clinic during light heavyweight debut