Robert Whittaker Suffers Severe Jaw Injury at UFC 308

Cataleya

October 28, 2024 · 1 min read

Robert Whittaker Suffers Severe Jaw Injury at UFC 308
Other Sports | October 28, 2024
Sports medicine doctor analyzes the jaw injury Robert Whittaker suffered against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308. (Image: Chris Unger/Zuffa)

Robert Whittaker suffered a severe jaw injury in a shocking turn of events at UFC 308 during his middleweight title eliminator against Khamzat Chimaev. Chimaev executed a powerful takedown, quickly transitioning to a dominant position along the cage and then delivered a crushing blow that fractured Whittaker’s jaw leading to a first-round submission victory for Chimaev.

After the fight, fans circulated images of Whittaker’s injury on social media, prompting immediate speculation about the extent of the damage. Commentators suggested that Chimaev may have dislocated Whittaker’s jaw. Sports medicine expert Dr. Brian Sutterer clarified the injury in a video shared on his YouTube channel. He explained that Chimaev’s powerful grip broke Whittaker’s lower jaw specifically the mandible instead of dislocating it.

Dr. Sutterer clarified that while Whittaker’s teeth remained attached to his jaw, the jaw itself fractured causing three front teeth to displace into his mouth. He noted, “The teeth are still anchored but the jaw has fractured, pushing the teeth backwards.” Regarding treatment, Dr. Sutterer indicated that Robert Whittaker would likely need surgery to realign his jaw and teeth which could involve wiring his jaw shut for an extended period.

He described the injury as “serious” and emphasized the need for appropriate medical intervention. Bloody Elbow and fans alike extend their best wishes for Robert Whittaker’s swift and safe recovery after this troubling incident in the octagon.