"UFC Saudi Arabia Event Recap: Bonus Recipients, Key Moments, and Fight Scores"

 Robert Whittaker made a profound statement to the UFC middleweight division during Saturday's event in Saudi Arabia, showcasing the diverse levels of MMA skill. Drafted in on short notice, you can't just expect someone to give me a good fight.

Whittaker wasted no time dispatching last-minute replacement Ikram Aliskerov in the main event. While initially staggering Aliskerov with a straight right, Whittaker swiftly secured victory with an uppercut and follow-up punches, prompting referee Marc Goddard to intervene.

Originally slated to face Khamzat Chimaev, who withdrew due to food poisoning, Whittaker faced Aliskerov, previously defeated only by Chimaev before both entered the UFC. Aliskerov had been reassigned from the UFC Vegas 93 card to this pivotal spot against Whittaker.

The bout underscored the Russian's struggle against the seasoned Whittaker, hinting that the 31-year-old may next contend against another middleweight ranked just outside the top 15.