Following his victory over Marvin Vettori, Roman Dolidze strategically called out former champions Robert Whittaker and Israel Adesanya, both aiming to rebound from recent defeats.
While Adesanya`s response remains unheard, Dolidze was unimpressed by Whittaker`s negative reaction to the idea of facing him.
Whittaker had dismissed a potential fight with Dolidze on his podcast, stating he had “nothing to gain” from it and found the idea uninteresting.
Whittaker also criticized Dolidze`s rematch with Vettori, finding it repetitive and further indicating his lack of interest in a fight.
Dolidze found Whittaker`s response “childish,” especially considering Whittaker`s recent loss to Khamzat Chimaev. He questioned Whittaker`s right to speak dismissively after such a defeat, suggesting he should prove himself before making such comments.
Dolidze stated that if Whittaker doesn`t want to fight, he should simply say so instead of making excuses. He advised Whittaker to “calm down” and do as he pleases if he avoids the fight.
Despite Whittaker`s standing in the division, Dolidze pointed out his recent mixed record and questioned why he is being selective with opponents, especially when Dolidze is on a winning streak.
Dolidze clarified that his callouts to Whittaker and Adesanya were not disrespectful but based on their current positions as top-ranked fighters coming off losses, making a fight with them logical.
Dolidze acknowledged Adesanya`s silence but expressed frustration with the middleweight division`s stagnation, with top stars sidelined. He recognizes Chimaev and Imavov as likely title contenders but believes other top-ranked fighters, including himself, need fresh matchups.
Dolidze reiterated his readiness to fight anyone and questioned Whittaker`s and Adesanya`s perceived reluctance, especially as fighters are ultimately motivated by financial compensation.
He challenged the notion that they are above fighting him, stating they are paid to fight and should seize the opportunity for a potentially lucrative and perhaps easier fight against him if they believe it to be so.
Ideally, Dolidze wants a fight with Whittaker or Adesanya but is pragmatic and willing to accept any opportunity the UFC offers to advance his career.
Dolidze emphasized his fighting spirit and history of taking fights on short notice, indicating his eagerness to compete and climb the rankings. He is open to waiting for a significant fight but urges top contenders to remain active rather than waiting indefinitely.
Marcus Blakely