Episode 7 features former UFC Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker, and Austin Vanderford fresh off his UFC debut & win.

Robert Whittaker opens up about:

  • His potential next fight
  • The surprising opponent he wants next
  • His unexpected friendship with longtime rival Israel Adesanya

Austin Vanderford shares:

  • What’s next for his UFC career
  • His high-profile relationship with Paige VanZant (PVZ)
  • How they handle fame and competition together

Robert Whittaker: Ready for Strickland?

Whittaker Wants Strickland

Robert Whittaker has a name in mind for his next fight: Sean Strickland.

  • “We’ve been circling each other for a while.”
  • Whittaker believes Strickland is the right fight to get him back in title contention.
  • Both fighters are coming off tough losses, making this matchup even more intriguing.

Not Done Yet

Whittaker knows he’s still a top contender:

  • “I’m still putting things together sometimes, but I’m confident in my skill set.”
  • A win over Strickland could put Whittaker right back into the title picture.

Whittaker & Adesanya: From Rivals to Respect

From Enemies to Training Partners

Whittaker shocked fans by training with Israel Adesanya, the man who took his title.

  • “No one understands you quite like an opponent.”
  • Whittaker admits there was a time he didn’t like Adesanya, but respect grew after two intense fights.

Why the Change?

  • After years at the top of the division, Whittaker says he no longer holds grudges.
  • Training with Adesanya offers valuable insights: “He knows me better than most

Austin Vanderford: More Than Mr. VanZant

Fresh UFC Win

  • Vanderford secured an impressive victory in his UFC debut despite last-minute opponent changes.
  • “The only thing that mattered was going in there and fighting. No excuses.”

From Bellator to UFC: The Long Road

  • Vanderford opened up about the ups and downs of his journey:
    • Lost a Bellator title fight
    • Rebuilt his career through LFA
    • Finally reached the UFC stage
  • “Losing made me a better fighter. I’m exactly where I should be.”

Relationship GOALS: Austin Vanderford & Paige VanZant

The Ultimate Power Couple

Austin Vanderford and Paige VanZant (PVZ) are known for their public relationship.

  • Vanderford proudly embraces being called “Mr. VanZant.”
  • “We’re each other’s best friends. There’s no jealousy—just support.”

Trust and Teamwork

  • Vanderford credits PVZ for keeping him grounded:
    • “Right before a fight, all I want is to have her next to me.”
  • The couple shares hobbies, including a surprising one:
    • Sports card collecting

Facing Power Slap Together

  • Vanderford also discussed PVZ’s latest challenge: Power Slap.
  • “It’s brought the fun back for her. She’s happy, and that’s all that matters to me.”

Final Thoughts: Relationship Goals, Inside and Outside the Cage

This episode wasn’t just about fighting—it was about relationships in all forms:

  • Whittaker’s evolving relationship with rivals like Adesanya
  • Vanderford’s strong partnership with Paige VanZant, both inside the gym and out

Both stories show that in combat sports, success isn’t just about winning fights—it’s about building bonds that make you stronger.

What did you think of this episode?

Would Whittaker vs. Strickland be a banger? And are Austin & Paige the UFC’s top power couple? Let us know!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed this recap! Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes insights and fight breakdowns.

By Published On: February 25th, 2025Categories: On Paper with Anthony Smith, Shows & Podcasts