Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa 2/17/24 – As UFC 298 draws nearer, a highly anticipated middleweight fight promises to captivate both fans and bettors alike. Robert Whittaker (known as THE REAPER) faces Paulo Costa (known as THE ERASER). Set to take place Saturday night, this event promises not just skill tests, but a battle for supremacy amongst middleweight ranks – multi-expert top picks are favoring Whittaker over Costa, signaling that this fight may well come down to strategy as much as strength.
Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa 2/17/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Honda Center, Anaheim, California, USA |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Robert “The Reaper” Whittaker Analysis
The former UFC middleweight champion, Robert Whittaker, enters this high stakes rematch sporting an impressive 25-7 professional record behind a dynamic striking and grappling skill set. “The Reaper” lands 4.47 significant strikes per minute with strong 42% accuracy, showcasing crisp technical boxing and lethal head kicks. Defensively, Whittaker absorbs just 3.39 significant strikes per minute by employing an excellent 60% striking defense rate. He seamlessly mixes in takedowns as well, completing 0.85 per round at a 39% success clip. His 82% takedown defense allows Whittaker to keep fights standing where he holds a significant edge.
Against Costa, Whittaker will look to establish his jab and biting leg kicks early, while carefully managing distance. This will allow him to rack up points against the dangerous Brazilian. Whittaker must avoid getting drawn into wild exchanges in the pocket, where Costa generates fight-ending power. If Whittaker can force Costa to push the pace and gas out, his superior cardio could take over in the championship rounds, opening up a late TKO or decision.
Paulo “The Eraser” Costa Analysis
The power-punching Paulo Costa enters this grudge match with a fearsome 14-2 record, having finished 12 of those wins by knockout. Costa truly lives up to his “The Eraser” moniker by landing a head-turning 6.50 significant strikes per minute at a 60% clip. He attacks with fight-ending power behind each punch, especially his overhand rights and left hooks to the body and head. Each Costa flurry brings the threat of closing the show. Defensively, he absorbs nearly as many strikes as he lands at 6.38 per round due to a porous 47% striking defense rate. Costa is also efficient in the grappling department, earning 0.53 takedowns per round at a 75% accuracy mark.
Against Whittaker, Costa’s path to victory focuses on constant forward pressure to back Whittaker against the fence. Here he can unload heavy combinations without threat of his opponent’s counters. But solely relying on brute force and forward plodding could play into Whittaker’s hands. Costa must cut off angles and get in Whittaker’s face early and often to mitigate damage from strikes. If he paces himself properly, his power could earn a trademark KO victory.
Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa Stats
| Whittaker | Costa | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 25-7-0 | 14-2-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 14:04 | 10:40 |
| Height | 6′ 0″ | 6′ 1″ |
| Weight | 185 lbs. | 185 lbs. |
| Reach | 73″ | 72″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 4.47 | 6.50 |
| Striking Accuracy | 42% | 60% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 3.39 | 6.38 |
| Defense | 60% | 47% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 0.85 | 0.53 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 39% | 75% |
| Takedown Defense | 82% | 79% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.0 | 0.0 |
Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa Betting Picks
Robert Whittaker seems as a moderate betting favorite, which aligns accurately based on the styles, skills and resumes these fighters bring to the Octagon. Whittaker boasts the technical prowess and five-round experience to stick to an effective game plan. Meanwhile, Costa remains dangerous but one-dimensional – relying solely on forward aggression and fight-ending power. The safe money stays with Whittaker outworking his opponent.
Ultimately, Whittaker winning a close decision seems the most likely outcome. Costa will enjoy minor success early but eventually get outpointed in the championship rounds after gassing out. Whittaker’s moneyline odds around -273 provide nice value.
Free Pick: Robert “The Reaper” Whittaker -273
As fight night nears, fans and bettors alike pore over data and performance metrics in an attempt to predict who will prevail in this titanic battle. Our analysis suggests Whittaker as being more versatile and strategic deep compared to his opponents; yet due to the unpredictable nature of MMA anything could happen inside the octagon and anyone seeking MMA free tips and picks must keep both fighters’ strengths and vulnerabilities in mind when making their selection.