Khamzat Chimaev vs Robert Whittaker Full Fight – UFC 308

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Published on July 3, 2026 by

The co-main event of UFC 308, held on October 26, 2024, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, featured one of the most anticipated middleweight matchups in recent years. Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker entered on a two-fight winning streak, while the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev looked to prove that he deserved the next title opportunity after years of injuries and illnesses had interrupted his momentum.

From the opening horn, Chimaev wasted no time imposing his trademark wrestling. Less than 15 seconds into the fight, he exploded forward with a powerful double-leg takedown, driving Whittaker to the canvas. The Australian initially defended well, preventing Chimaev from immediately taking his back and working hard to build back to the fence. Despite Whittaker’s composure, Chimaev’s relentless pressure never allowed him to create meaningful separation.

Once established on top, Chimaev showcased exceptional positional control. He continuously threatened rear-naked choke attempts while mixing in short punches and forcing Whittaker to defend multiple submission attacks. Every time Whittaker attempted to improve his position, Chimaev smoothly transitioned, maintaining dominant control with suffocating pressure that left the former champion unable to generate any offense.

Midway through the round, Chimaev secured a tight grip around Whittaker’s head and face, transitioning into a brutal face crank. Rather than attacking the neck alone, the immense pressure was applied directly across Whittaker’s jaw. Within seconds, Whittaker immediately tapped in obvious pain as the submission caused severe damage to his jaw and teeth. The referee stepped in at 3:34 of Round 1, awarding Chimaev the victory by submission (face crank).

After the fight, it was revealed that Whittaker had suffered significant injuries, including a dislocated jaw and damaged teeth that required medical treatment. The graphic nature of the injury highlighted just how much pressure Chimaev generated during the submission. It also marked the first submission loss of Whittaker’s accomplished MMA career.

The dominant performance immediately elevated Chimaev into middleweight title contention. By completely neutralizing one of the division’s most respected former champions in less than four minutes, Chimaev delivered perhaps the most impressive victory of his career, reaffirming his reputation as one of the UFC’s most dangerous grapplers and setting the stage for a championship opportunity.

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