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Johnny Walker may end brotherly feud with Valter after reported UFC heavyweight debut
TL;DR
Johnny Walker is preparing for his UFC heavyweight debut, potentially against his brother Valter. Their relationship has been strained recently due to a public feud sparked by Johnny's absence at Valter's event.
Key points
- Johnny Walker is debuting in the UFC heavyweight division
- Potential opponent is his brother Valter
- Feud sparked by Johnny's absence at Valter's event
Johnny WalkerValter WalkerUFCKarate Combat
Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC
Johnny Walker is set to make his debut in the heavyweight division, and it could come against a very familiar face.
Back in February, Johnny didnât turn up for Valterâs Karate Combat event, which sparked some public back-and-forth between the brothers.
Given their playful relationship, most assumed it was just banter. But Johnnyâs reaction hinted there might be more to it than that.
At the time, a fight between them seemed far-fetched since they were in separate divisions. Now though, reports indicate that Johnny is preparing to move up in weight class soon. And with Valter looking for new opponents himself, the timing seems perfect for this bout to become a reality.
Johnny Walker reportedly set to face Ante Delija in UFC heavyweight debut in Belgrade
Before his recent fight in Miami, Johnny Walker spoke about the challenges of maintaining a strict diet to stay at 205 pounds, suggesting that heâd be better suited to the heavyweight division.
After a tough loss to Dominick Reyes, Walker hinted at moving up a weight class but didnât fully commit at the time.
A report from Alex Behunin has now confirmed that decision, with Walker set to make his heavyweight debut against Ante Delija on August 1 in Belgrade, Serbia.
Delija, who is ranked 10th in the division, has gone 1-2 since entering the UFC heavyweight ranks last September.
Despite riding a four-fight win streak with each victory coming via heel hook submission, Valter Walker hasnât broken into the top 15 of the division yet.
âLetâs see how this fight plays out. Maybe we can get it done before the end of this year,â Johnny added. âBut if I go and smash someone else and finish him as well. I want more than just my brother. Maybe even Pavlovich.â
The move ends Johnnyâs stretch of 16 consecutive UFC fights at light heavyweight where he went 8-7-1 overall record.
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Q&A
What caused the feud between Johnny Walker and Valter?
The feud began when Johnny Walker did not attend Valter's Karate Combat event in February, leading to public exchanges between the brothers.
When is Johnny Walker's UFC heavyweight debut scheduled?
The specific date for Johnny Walker's UFC heavyweight debut has not been announced yet.
How has Johnny Walker's absence affected his relationship with Valter?
Johnny's absence at Valter's event has hinted at underlying tensions, suggesting that their playful relationship may have deeper issues.