Poatan focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
Following his loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Casa Branca , Alex Poatan's future in the heavyweight division (up to 120,2 kg) has once again become a topic of debate among fans and experts. However, Valter Walker believes a potential fight against Sergei Pavlovich would result in a clear advantage for the Russian, who, in his view, would "run over" the former UFC champion.
In an interview with Laerte Viana's YouTube channel, the heavyweight was direct in analyzing a hypothetical fight between Poatan and Pavlovich. Without hesitation, the Brazilian stated that he does not believe in a victory for the former champion against the Russian, known for his enormous knockout power.
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“I don’t think so, because he’s a heavyweight there, like a tank. In my opinion, Pavlovich would run him over recklessly. Just like he did with Xicão,” declared Valter Walker.
The statement refers to Sergei Pavlovich 's aggressive style , who usually pressures his opponents from the very first moments and has accumulated impressive victories in the category. For Walker, the physical difference and the Russian's power would be decisive factors in a possible duel against Poatan.
Despite his strong opinion, the future of the São Paulo native remains uncertain. Holding belts in two UFC weight classes, the Brazilian is frequently mentioned by potential heavyweight opponents, such as Josh Hokit . However, in the Rio de Janeiro native's assessment, Hokit's knockout power would make the Russian the favorite in a potential fight.
Poatan and Pavlovich's UFC record
Alex Poatan has built one of the fastest career trajectories in recent UFC history. Since his debut in 2021, the Brazilian has fought 13 times in the organization, winning the middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) and light heavyweight (up to 93 kg) titles, and recording 10 wins and three losses in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Known for his knockout power, he has 11 knockout victories in professional MMA and has defeated names such as Israel Adesanya , Jan Blachowicz , Jiri Prochazka , Jamahal Hill , and Magomed Ankalaev.
On the other side, Sergei Pavlovich is one of the most feared heavyweights today. The Russian has a professional record of 21 wins and three losses, with an impressive 16 knockouts and a reputation for finishing fights quickly. In the UFC, he has defeated opponents such as Derrick Lewis , Tai Tuivasa , and Curtis Blaydes , even competing for the interim title against Tom Aspinall in 2023. Furthermore, most of his victories in the organization have occurred in the first round, reflecting the aggressive style that has made him one of the division's greatest knockout artists.
Relive Pavlovich's knockout of Xicão.
SERGEI PAVLOVICH KNOCKS OUT TALLISON TEIXEIRA IN THE FIRST ROUND! #UFCMacau pic.twitter.com/L9qU0tMEFF
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 30, 2026
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