Recovered from defeat, Walker wants to return in December: 'I want to return as soon as possible'

J. Walker already believes he is two fights away from title contention. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @johnnywalkerufc

The avalanche of criticism after the defeat to Corey anderson last Saturday (2), at UFC 244, seems not to have shaken Johnny Walker. The Brazilian stated that he understood his mistakes and is now ready to return to the octagon. The fighter suggested that he could return to active duty in December or at the beginning of 2020 and suggested a fight against Mauritius Shogun. The statement was made in an interview with 'MMA Fighting'.

See too

Doctor who interrupted fight between Diaz and Masvidal confirms threats after decision: 'I fear for my safety'

After defeat at UFC 244, Nate Diaz receives three months of medical suspension

Romero may have a chance to face Adesanya, but Dana says: 'He has to win a fight first'

“I want to fight as quickly as possible. I want to fight in December, January or February. I'm ready. I'm not injured. I'm going back to the gym and training to beat the next opponent, trusting myself and my strategy a little more”, said the light heavyweight.

Calmer after the setback to Anderson, Walker tried to explain what went wrong in the confrontation against the American, who gave him a devastating knockout in the opening minutes of one of the most anticipated and watched duels of the night. For the fighter from Belford Roxo, the mistake was not having followed his strategy that had been working since his debut as an Ultimate professional, in November last year.

“I know it was my mistake. I hesitated too much. I should have been more aggressive, but I wasn't. There were a lot of people talking about his falls, so I waited for him to try to take me down and I ended up not letting my game flow. I should have listened to myself. It was the wrong plan. I listened to everyone but me. That was my mistake and I regret it”, said Johnny.

To return to acting, Walker intends to stay behind the scenes of mixed martial arts. The athlete has already confirmed his presence in the audience at the UFC Sao Paulo. The combatant can have two specific opponents as their next opponents appearing on the card in the capital of São Paulo: Mauritius Shogun ou Paul Craig, who exchange forces in the co-main duel of the night.

“I will be there (in São Paulo) to watch as a guest. I know two fights will put me where I was before. So I'm not that off track. I'll be back soon. It was a learning experience. I will never hesitate in a fight again, brother. Never', concluded the athlete.

The setback for Corey marked the fourth of the Brazilian's career, which currently has 17 victories.