‘Excited’ Kelvin Gastelum is ‘feeling better than ever’ ahead of Robert Whittaker fight!


‘Excited’ Kelvin Gastelum is ‘feeling better than ever’ ahead of Robert Whittaker fight!

Kelvin Gastelum replaces Paulo Costa against Robert Whittaker.

Kelvin Gastelum will be taking on Robert Whittaker this weekend at UFC on ESPN 22. The American stepped in after Whittaker’s original opponent Paulo Costa, withdrew due to illness. Kelvin will be looking forward to making the most of this opportunity and getting a shot at the title once again (he fought for the interim middleweight championship against Israel Adesanya).

Speaking at the media day, Gastelum answered the reporters questions, while also revealing that he felt completely re-energized and better than what he did in February. He also gave credit to his opponent, claiming that he has gotten better and smarter over the course of the years.

He’s gotten better… And, smarter, so have I‘ – Kelvin Gastelum

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Kelvin Gastelum was quoted as saying, “I feel better than what I did in February. I’m a much better version of that. I’m a much better version than I was two years ago. And, I’m excited.” [H/T FirstSportz]

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Gastelum also added that the winner of the fight might get a shot at the middleweight champion – Israel Adesanya. The two have already fought Izzy once, with Gastelum coming really close to defeating the Nigerian. Robert Whittaker, on the other hand was knocked out by Adesanya, thereby losing his middleweight title.

About Whittaker, Gastelum said, “He’s gotten better. And, smarter, so have I. I’ve matured more. I feel like all the stars are aligning for me right now and I just feel really good.” [H/T FirstSportz]

Gastelum is coming off a victory against Ian Heinisch at UFC 258, winning via. unanimous decision. He thereby prevented a further slip, as he came into the fight on a three-fight skid.

Whittaker, on the other hand, is coming off a victory against Jared Cannonier at UFC 254. He is currently on a two match win streak. He will be looking forward to beating Kelvin and getting a title shot once again.

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