Star in UFC Las Vegas 48, which takes place this Saturday (19), Johnny Walker is ready for his debut in the 2022 season. Opponent of Jamahal hill In the main fight of the show, the Brazilian spoke exclusively to the SUPER LUTAS channel about the first challenge of the season. The fighter analyzed his opponent and highlighted how he guaranteed to show progress after the confrontation against Thiago Marreta.
See too
A Brazilian promise in the light heavyweight division (up to 93kg.) of Ultimate, Walker seeks to advance in the division, today, led by Glover Teixeira. To do this, the fighter needs a positive result this weekend.
Post-Thiago Marreta evolution
In October of last season, Johnny stepped into the octagon for one of the biggest challenges of his professional MMA career. At the time, the athlete faced Thiago Marreta and, although he did not surpass his compatriot – being beaten by points – the fighter from Belford Roxo (RJ) made a point of highlighting his evolution.
“It’s the evolution of the athlete, which we do every day. The technical, psychological part, understanding the game. We get to know this with more experience. After that fight (against Marreta), then, there were five rounds. We stayed inside the Octagon for a long time. 25 minutes of beating is a long time. Certainly, for this next fight, I will know when to find the right time, to enter, exit, change strategy, listen to the corner (the coaches). There are times when I have to feel it myself, not just listen to the corner”, he explained.
Opponent analysis
This Saturday, Walker will face an opponent famous for his knockout power. The Brazilian then analyzed the clash and shows that he understands what is necessary to prevent his opponent from growing in the division.
“He (Hill) is left-handed, like Muppet. The training hasn't changed much. When striking, he raises his chin a lot. It's a good way to catch him. I'm going to fight MMA. Kick, punch, throw down, wrestling, capoeira. I’m training a lot of capoeira too”, he assured.
Next step
Confident that he will leave the octagon with a positive result this weekend, Johnny has already made a name for himself in the UFC. With his feet on the ground, the Brazilian suggested an opponent who is in the top 10, and could bring him closer to the top five.
“By going slow, past the Hill, I think I could catch the Volkan oezdemir”, he stated, suggesting a clash against number eight in the group.
Athletes' history
An MMA professional since 2013, Walker is heading towards his 25th appearance in the sport. At 29 years old, the Brazilian has 18 triumphs and six setbacks in the sport.
Willing to 'spoil the party' for Johnny, Jamahal hill will make his 11th challenge in mixed martial arts. The 30-year-old athlete has nine wins and one stumble in his career.
