Paul Craig says Johnny Walker will succumb to his power at UFC Rio: 'I can submit or knock him out'

P. Craig promises to beat Jhonny Walker at UFC Rio. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @paulcraig

Ninth place in the UFC light heavyweight rankings (up to 93kg), Paul Craig is confident that it will emerge victorious in a confrontation against Johnny Walker, at UFC Rio, January 21st. Having won seven of eight via submission in Ultimate, the Scot believes that he will not be dependent on his game on the ground and that he will nullify Walker's skills on the feet.

“My submissions speak for themselves. I have some of the biggest submissions in light heavyweight. I think I'm up there with the most triangles in the division too, so I have all these records. I believe in myself in this fight. I can end this anywhere combat unfolds. I believe in my striking. I have this newfound love for stand-up fighting and this newfound experience that I've never had before, and the way I've been taught recently has opened a new door. What I believe will happen is that this fight will end through my standing skills. I believe my right hand will surprise,” Craig told 'Fanatics View'.

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In the career of Johnny Walker, the Brazilian was knocked out in four of the seven fights he lost. For Craig, the Belford Roxo athlete will not resist his blows and will consequently seek a grappling fight.

“Once Walker feels how strong I am, I think he will go for the takedown. I think when he feels the power in my hands and my legs, then he will be impressed like most people are. I fought three rounds with Ankalaev, and he changed his stance, felt the power in my kicks and the power in my hands, and I don't think Johnny Walker is ready for what I have. I always had the power there, and I always had the skill in my kicks and my punches. I just never had the confidence. I think that's what has changed in the last six months: confidence in my abilities”, concluded Craig.

A UFC veteran, Paul was having a great time in the organization, with four straight wins on the fast track. In his last fight, in July 2022, however, the athlete ended up being surpassed by Volkan oezdemirby unanimous decision.