Poatan focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube/UFC
A few days after securing another dominant victory at UFC Abu Dhabi last Saturday (25), Valter Walker revealed that he would not be interested in participating in a short camp alongside Alex Poatan . Despite respecting the double champion of the world's biggest event and recognizing the importance of exchanging experiences with one of the biggest names in current MMA, the heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg) stated that he prefers to maintain the work done with his team.
In an interview with Laerte Viana's YouTube channel, the Brazilian explained that he is fully adapted to the routine led by the coach and highlighted that, at this point in his career, he prioritizes an environment where all planning is focused on his own development. According to Walker, a temporary move to assist Poatan could cause his own development to cease being the main focus.
See too
“I have no interest in training at another gym; Coach Gor provides me with everything I need. I really like my routine. Everything is focused on me (at his gym). If I go to help Poatan at his camp, great, I'll meet the guys, exchange experiences, but the attention won't be on me, it will be on him,” stated Valter Walker.
Despite ruling out a temporary change, the Brazilian made it clear that he would accept working alongside Alex Poatan if there was a long-term project with direct involvement in his development as an athlete.
“A two-year period. I would go if he said, 'I'm going to train you for two years,' I would go. But two weeks? Me getting punched in the face and everyone filming,” the finisher added.
The Brazilian finished Thomas Petersen with a calf lock in just seconds at UFC Abu Dhabi , securing his fifth consecutive submission victory in professional MMA. And he's planning his next steps.
Fighters by Valter Walker
Walter Walker celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Valter Walker , 28, is considered one of the leading names in the new generation of heavyweights. Known for his high-level jiu-jitsu, physical strength, and aggressive style, the Brazilian quickly caught the international attention for his ability to finish opponents. With a style based on seeking submissions, the Brazilian has been building a career marked by dominant performances inside the octagon.
The athlete began his professional MMA career in 2018 and debuted in the UFC in 2024. Throughout his career, the Brazilian has five consecutive victories in the organization and became known for his series of submissions, including his recent triumph against Thomas Petersen . The Rio de Janeiro native has a record of 16 wins and one loss.
VIDEO: Valter Walker wins fifth consecutive victory
UNBELIEVABLE 😱 @ValterUFC locks in the calf-slicer for the victory at #UFCAbuDhabi!
[LIVE NOW on @ParamountPlus ] pic.twitter.com/O9UPQDS1Oq
— UFC (@ufc) July 25, 2026
Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.
Comments