Robert Whittaker confident of easy UFC middleweight title defence against Kelvin Gastelum in Melbourne

Robert Whittaker has promised to defend his UFC middleweight title via knock out in Melbourne this weekend, warning American Kelvin Gastelum should be ‘scared’ of his punching power.

Robert Whittaker has promised to defend his UFC middleweight title via knock out this weekend, warning American Kelvin Gastelum should be “scared” of his punching power.

Speaking with News Corp Australia after training in Sydney on Tuesday, Whittaker insisted his UFC 234 showdown would not last through five championship rounds at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne on Sunday.

A strong believer in visualisation techniques, the 28-year-old Sydneysider is predicting the fight will finish with Gastelum laid flat out on the Octagon mat.

Robert Whittaker says he presents as a ‘scary prospect’ for Kelvin Gastelum.

“I see myself hitting Kelvin until he falls,” Whittaker said.

“I’m just too strong for him, too fast; I hit too hard.

“I’m better in every single way .... and I’m really going to hurt the guy.”

During a recent UFC 234 media day, Gastelum told journalists it was he who would finish Whittaker within the opening round of the Australian’s first title defence on home soil.

And as for why the American’s prediction is wrong?

“Look it’s a fight so who knows?” Whittaker laughed.

“Anything can happen.

“But I can tell you I’m coming into this Sunday in the greatest form of my fighting career.

Kelvin Gastelum comes to Australia with an impressive record.

“And that’s a scary prospect for Kelvin.

“Because even on my worst day I’m an extremely dangerous fighter.

“But right now, my stand up game is at an highest. It’s become a real strength for me, I’m ready to go.”

Whittaker and his team will fly to Melbourne early on Wednesday morning.

Originally published as Robert Whittaker confident of easy UFC middleweight title defence against Kelvin Gastelum in Melbourne