James Doolan: "Whiteford will go after Jimmy Hettes and prove he belongs in the UFC"

James Doolan: "Whiteford will go after Jimmy Hettes and prove he belongs in the UFC" 
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

On Saturday night Scottish featherweight Robert Whiteford will step into the octagon at UFC Fight Night 30 in Manchester for his promotional debut, marking the first time a Scotman has ever fought in the UFC.

Fighting out of Scotlands leading combat gym Dinky Ninjas, Whiteford (10-1) joins the promotion as a last minute replacement for injured Tuf Smashes contestant Mike Wilkinson, where he will take on the much more experienced Jimmy Hettes (10-1, 2-1 UFC), but the opportunity to fight in the UFC was just too good to turn down:

"It's the realisation of his dream and a lot of hard work and sacrifice. Said Whitefords coach at Dinky Ninjas, James Doolan. "He's very excited about the fight, it's where he's wanted to be since his first day in MMA. I don't think it's quite sunk in for him yet." 

Whiteford began his pro career in 2009 losing his debut by doctor stopage, the Scot has since gone on the win 10 straight - five knockouts and a submission, with notable victories coming over recent Cage Warriors featherweight title challenger Martin Svensson, aswell as journeyman Paul Reed, and Antanas Jazbuitis. He now prepares for the biggest fight of his career against Hettis, on just a weeks notice, but Doolan doesn't expect the short notice to cause any issues:

"His weight's fine, Robert's always training and in the gym like a professional. The cut won't be an issue for him" Said Doolan. "Expect the occasion to bring the best out in him, he will go after Jimmy Hettes and prove he belongs in the UFC."

UFC Fight Night 30 takes place this Saturday at the Phones4U Arena, in Manchester. Whiteford vs Hettis will features on the cards Facebook prelims.