Robert Whittaker suffered a devastating first-round submission loss to Khamzat Chimaev on Sunday morning.
Whittaker tapped out at the 3:34 mark of the opening round.
What happened?
The 33-year-old Australian landed a couple of leg kicks but didn’t have the chance to throw a punch.
He was taken down after just 15 seconds.
Why it matters for Robert Whittaker
This loss casts doubt over whether Whittaker will ever get another title shot opportunity.
He improved his record to 14-0 against Chimaev.
What comes next?
Whittaker’s prospects of securing another world title shot nosedived in Abu Dhabi.
He appeared to suffer an injury to his chin or jaw during the decisive choke move.
The fight was originally due to take place in June, but Chimaev withdrew after falling ill.
Renowned wrestler Chimaev started the fight as favourite despite being ranked 13th.
A disturbing and graphic photo of Whittaker’s jaw began circulating after the fight.
It shows blood pouring from his mouth, while some teeth appear to be dislodged.
Chimaev said: “I felt something wrong, a click.”
He added: “Thanks Rob. I love you my brother — you are a legend.”
Whittaker’s loss was only his fourth in his last 19 fights over a 10-year period.
It was only the second time Whittaker had been submitted and the first time in 13 years.
The Australian landed a couple of leg kicks but didn’t have the chance to throw a punch.
He scrambled hard along the cage in an attempt to escape the clutches of the UAE-based Russian fighter.
Whittaker’s injury was severe enough to cause a graphic photo to circulate.
The photo shows the extent of the damage to his jaw.
Chimaev improved his record to 14-0 with the win.
He is now a strong contender for a title shot in the UFC MMA middleweight division.
Whittaker’s future in the UFC MMA is uncertain after the loss.
He will need to recover from the injury and regroup before his next fight.
The fight took place on Sunday morning in Abu Dhabi.
The event was highly anticipated, with many expecting a close contest between the two fighters.