We all know someone who thinks MMA is a sport for thugs, a barbaric mix of prize-fighting and professional wrestling.

Introduce them to Robert Whittaker.

Whittaker is the UFC champion who smashes the negative stereotypes.

A humble man from a humble home in suburban Sydney, he became a star on Sunday when he won the UFC interim middleweight title in the main event of UFC 213.

Down two rounds and nursing an injured knee, he fought back to secure an inspirational points victory over hulking Cuban Yoel Romero.

It's fantastic news for the sport in Australia.

While some fighters trade verbal barbs to get publicity, Whittaker lets his fighting do the talking.

His father, Jack, wouldn't be too pleased if he saw his son acting like a goose (or Conor McGregor).

Whittaker excelled at rugby league and traditional martial arts as a child before dedicating himself to MMA.

The 26-year-old has plenty of personality but he's been raised to value sportsmanship and respect.

They are two things his next opponent has been accused of lacking.

Veteran British champion Michael Bisping is a notorious loud mouth who's had a range of sketchy moments throughout his career.

He's sure to send some smack talk Whittaker's way in the build up to their title unification bout late this year or early next year.

It will be a new experience for the Australian and one that is unlikely to trouble him.

He said as much at a press conference after Sunday's come-from-behind win at UFC 213 in Las Vegas.

"Michael Bisping's Michael Bisping," Whittaker said.

"I'm the type of fighter who goes into every fight with no ill will towards any of my opponents.

"I'm an athlete first and foremost and I love the sport.

"I have a lot of respect for him but we're going to touch gloves now.

"It's fate. We have to fight now and when we do there's going to be no mercy."

Whittaker has lived in Australia for as long as he can remember but he's also loyal to his country of birth New Zealand.

He has officially busted the myth that local fighters need to move overseas to reach the top levels.

His striking is elite and his takedown defence is shockingly good for someone from this part of the world, but his character is equally impressive.

You would be hard-pressed to find a better ambassador for MMA.

"Every time I walk out to that Octagon I feel like I'm representing my countries, Australia and New Zealand," Whittaker said after Sunday's win.

"It's the highest honour and the highest privilege.

"I try to conduct myself in a good manner outside the Octagon as well as inside the Octagon.

"A champion needs to act like a champion and I can only hope I fill those shoes."