Robert Whittaker (21-4) vs. Kelvin Gastelum (15-3, 1 No Contest)

Class:

Line: Whittaker -240

Storyline: Gastelum has undoubtedly found a home at 185 pounds after weightcutting issues held him back from achieving his full potential at 170. His only defeat at middleweight was by submission to former champ Chris Weidman, but Gastelum has bounced back with a knockout of former champ Michael Bisping and a split decision over top contender Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza in May. He has his work cut out for him against Whittaker, whose nine straight wins include two consecutive victories over Yoel Romero in title bouts. He has fought only once since first winning the belt in July 2017, so inactivity could be a concern. Whittaker first missed time with a staph infection, then sat out as he coached against Gastelum on “The Ultimate Fighter.” This largely should be a boxing match. Gastelum is capable of taking the fight to the ground, but he tends to prefer the striking game. He might have to mix it up against Whittaker to take him out of his comfort zone. Whittaker will have a massive edge in crowd support as the only Australian champion in UFC history.

Hill’s pick: Whittaker by decision

Fang’s pick: Whittaker by decision