Former champion says he wants to follow in Paulo Borrachinha's footsteps in the UFC.

Paulo borrachinha (dir.) in fight against Robert whittaker. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Robert whittaker Seeking a new direction in his career to regain his winning form in the UFC, the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg) is considering a change of weight class as a way to reinvent himself within the organization. The Australian, who has previously fought at welterweight (up to 77 kg), is considering following the... steps de Paulo borrachinha and move up to the light heavyweight division (up to 93 kg).

In an interview with 'Main Event TV', Robert whittaker He explained that the possibility is being carefully considered and revealed that Borrachinha's recent move to the 93kg division has reinforced his reflection. According to the fighter, many would be surprised by the difficulty he believes he will have in reaching the ideal weight in the new category.

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“I’m considering this very seriously. I recently saw that Paulo Costa also moved up to the 93kg category. Many people would be surprised at how difficult it will be for me to reach the ideal weight in that category,” he said. Robert whittaker.

Paulo Borrachinha has a fight scheduled in the UFC light heavyweight division.

Se Robert whittaker are you still thinking about moving up a category? Paulo borrachinha He has already begun the process of adapting to the new division in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Scheduled for UFC 327, set for April 11th, the Brazilian will face... Azamat Murzakanov, one of the top names in the light heavyweight division. Even facing the challenge of competing in a higher weight class, the fighter from Minas Gerais indicates that he shouldn't be at a physical disadvantage compared to his opponent.

Published on 'X', Paulo borrachinha He indicated that he is focused on an intense muscle-building process for his debut in the light heavyweight division, stating that he is currently in a period of muscle mass gain.

"Bulking season (muscle gain phase), baby. Now the secret juice is unlimited," Borrachinha wrote.

Bulking season, baby.

Now secret juice unlimited 🧃🤯🙌 pic.twitter.com/6eAqS2DSPJ

— Paulo Costa (@BorrachinhaMMA) January 14, 2026