The banter between Robert Whittaker and Yair Rodriguez has taken a light-hearted turn amid speculation about Alexander Volkanovski’s next challenger. Following Volkanovski’s recent victory over Diego Lopes, discussions have intensified around potential opponents, with Rodriguez frequently mentioned. However, Whittaker’s take on the matchup seems to have ruffled Rodriguez’s feathers.
Recently, Whittaker expressed doubt that a bout between Rodriguez and Volkanovski would generate significant interest. In response, Rodriguez fired back through an Instagram post shared by ‘MMA UNCENSORED.’
“I didn’t ask for your opinion ‘mate’ focus on your sh*t so you don’t get your teeth broken again ❤️“
In light of Rodriguez’s reaction, Whittaker brushed off the situation, suggesting that his comments were intended to be casual and not incendiary. The UFC middleweight champion remarked that Rodriguez should ease up a bit.
“I don’t know, he’s an emotional guy. I’ve backed him in a lot of his fights, and I said only good things. I didn’t even say anything negative to him. He’s gotta chill out a little bit, like it was just couch talk,” Whittaker stated during an interview on ‘Main Event TV.’
Robert Whittaker tells Yair Rodriguez to ‘chill out’ after he got mad at him for saying no one wanted to see Yair vs Volk 😭
“He’s an emotional guy… he’s gotta chill out.”
🎥 @MainEventTV #UFC #MMApic.twitter.com/swgJg6ajdS
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 5, 2025
As it stands, the potential fight’s confirmation remains uncertain. Rodriguez is currently riding high after a decisive unanimous decision win over Patricio Pitbull at UFC 314, boosting his confidence significantly. Meanwhile, Volkanovski has also acknowledged the buzz surrounding Rodriguez as a possible contender.
Alexander Volkanovski Confirms Yair Rodriguez Rumors
In recent statements, Alexander Volkanovski affirmed that Yair Rodriguez is indeed being considered for a title fight. As he searches for his next challenger, Volkanovski indicated that Rodriguez could be the frontrunner. However, no official details have been confirmed as of yet.
“Nothing’s locked in. It’s pretty clear that it wasn’t gonna be Movsar… Yair’s name has popped up. No dates set right now… The rumors you’re hearing are pretty much true but nothing’s locked in,” Volkanovski remarked during an appearance on ‘Main Event TV.’
🚨 Alexander Volkanovski says the rumors surrounding the rematch between him and Yair Rodriguez are true, but nothing is locked in yet
“Nothing’s locked in. It’s pretty clear that it wasn’t gonna be Movsar… Yair’s name has popped up. No dates set right now… The rumors you’re… pic.twitter.com/tUAxvW2Uv8
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 5, 2025
As the dynamics continue to unfold, fans are left anticipating where the scenario will lead in the coming weeks.
