Gastelum shared “Fight of the Night” honors with his opponent for a bout in which he lost a unanimous decision at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. While Gastelum pressured Whittaker throughout the fight and displayed a sturdy chin, he had no answers for the ex-champion’s versatile offensive arsenal at the end of the night.
“The Ultimate Fighter 17” winner released a statement expressing a desire to still be “one of the best” on social media.
“Getting an onslaught of amazing messages and I’m glad [people] enjoyed the fight,” Gastelum wrote. “Thank you all for sending even the slightest positive gesture and messages.
I still believe I can get the job done and be one of the best! I wouldn’t say that just to say it, I believe it with my heart. I am learning so much from my opponents and I will make the necessary adjustments for the next battle. We’re on to the next one.”
— #OnAmission4Gold (@KelvinGastelum) April 19, 2021
Gastelum has lost four of his last five Octagon appearances dating back to a five-round decision defeat to Israel Adesanya in an interim championship bout at UFC 236. His lone victory during that time was a decision win against Ian Heinisch at UFC 258.