LAS VEGAS – “A little disappointing, but definitely understandable” is how Kelvin Gastelum describes the news that his upcoming title shot will have to wait a little longer than expected. Earlier this month, UFC officials announced that Gastelum (15-3 MMA, 10-3 UFC) will be the next to challenge middleweight champion Robert Whittaker (20-4 MMA, 10-3 UFC) after the two are done coaching the upcoming 28th season of “The Ultimate Fighter.” Speaking to reporters then , Gastelum said no exact dates were discussed for the title bout but that he’d heard rumblings of December. That fell through this week when Whittaker announced he hasn’t started rehabbing the hand he broke in yet another five-round war with Yoel Romero and, “realistically,” won’t be able to return to the octagon until early 2019 . Related UFC champ Robert Whittaker says 'realistically' he can't defend title until early 2019 That means the usually active Gastelum will have some waiting to do. But the fighter understands the situation and wants to meet a “nice and healthy” champ in his first UFC title shot.
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