Ikram Aliskerov faced a tough challenge this past weekend at UFC Saudi Arabia, stepping in on short notice to fight former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker. The event, held at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, marked the UFC’s debut in Saudi Arabia and saw Aliskerov take a significant risk by accepting the bout against one of the division’s elite fighters.

From the outset, Whittaker’s experience and striking prowess were evident. Aliskerov attempted to establish his range with kicks, but Whittaker quickly closed the distance with a series of precise jabs. Less than two minutes into the first round, Whittaker landed a powerful right hand that had Aliskerov on wobbly legs. Although Aliskerov managed to get some control back in his legs, Whittaker’s relentless pressure continued, culminating in a devastating uppercut that floored Aliskerov once more. The referee stepped in to stop the fight at 1:49 of the first round, handing Aliskerov his first UFC loss and only the second knockout loss of his career.

Despite the disappointing outcome, Aliskerov maintained a positive outlook. In a statement released after the fight, he expressed no regrets about stepping up on short notice. Aliskerov, a former combat sambo world champion, entered the bout on a seven-fight winning streak and remains one of the most promising prospects in the middleweight division. With a professional record now standing at 15-2, he looks forward to learning from this experience and returning stronger in future bouts.

After Ikram Aliskerov suffered his first defeat inside the Octagon, we take a look at what’s next for the middleweight contender.

Chris Curtis

Ikram Aliskerov’s first-round knockout loss to Robert Whittaker at UFC Saudi Arabia has left fans and analysts pondering his next move. A logical and compelling matchup for Aliskerov would be a fight against Chris Curtis. Here’s why this bout makes sense.

Aliskerov, a former combat sambo world champion, stepped up on short notice to face Whittaker, showcasing his willingness to take on top-tier competition. Despite the loss, Aliskerov remains one of the most promising prospects in the middleweight division, with a professional record of 15-2. His previous victories over Phil Hawes and Warlley Alves demonstrated his knockout power and technical prowess.

Chris Curtis, currently ranked in the middleweight division, is known for his striking and durability. Curtis has faced a variety of opponents and has built a reputation for being a tough and resilient fighter. A bout between Aliskerov and Curtis would be a clash of styles, with Aliskerov’s grappling and striking skills pitted against Curtis’s stand-up game.

This fight would provide Aliskerov with an opportunity to bounce back against a credible opponent, while Curtis would have the chance to solidify his position in the rankings. Additionally, both fighters are known for their exciting fighting styles, promising an entertaining matchup for fans.

Anthony Hernandez

Ikram Aliskerov’s first-round knockout loss to Robert Whittaker at UFC Saudi Arabia has left him seeking a path to redemption. A compelling next opponent for Aliskerov would be Anthony Hernandez.

Aliskerov, entered the UFC with high expectations and demonstrated his potential with impressive victories over Phil Hawes and Warlley Alves. Despite his recent setback against Whittaker, Aliskerov remains a formidable contender in the middleweight division. His professional record of 15-2 reflects his skill and resilience, making him eager to bounce back.

Anthony Hernandez, currently ranked in the middleweight division, is coming off a series of impressive performances, including a four-fight win streak with notable victories over Edmen Shahbazyan and Rodolfo Vieira. Hernandez was originally scheduled to face Aliskerov at UFC 298, but the bout was canceled due to Aliskerov’s staph infection. This unfinished business adds an extra layer of intrigue to the potential matchup.

A fight between Aliskerov and Hernandez would be a clash of styles, with Aliskerov’s grappling and striking skills against Hernandez’s well-rounded game. This bout would provide Aliskerov with an opportunity to re-establish himself as a top contender, while Hernandez could solidify his position in the rankings.

Jack Hermansson

Ikram Aliskerov’s first-round knockout loss to Robert Whittaker at UFC Saudi Arabia has left him at a crossroads in his UFC career. A logical and intriguing next opponent for Aliskerov would be Jack Hermansson.

Despite his recent setback against Whittaker, Aliskerov remains a formidable contender in the middleweight division, with a professional record of 15-2. His willingness to step up on short notice against a former champion speaks volumes about his competitive spirit and readiness to face top-tier opponents.

Jack Hermansson, currently ranked in the middleweight division, is known for his grappling prowess and well-rounded skill set. Hermansson has faced some of the best fighters in the division, including victories over Kelvin Gastelum and Edmen Shahbazyan. A bout between Aliskerov and Hermansson would be a clash of styles, with Aliskerov’s striking and grappling skills against Hermansson’s submission game and experience.

This fight would provide Aliskerov with an opportunity to bounce back against a credible and ranked opponent, while Hermansson would have the chance to solidify his position in the rankings and potentially move closer to title contention. Additionally, both fighters are known for their exciting fighting styles, promising an entertaining matchup for fans.