Valter Walker continues his impressive run in the UFC heavyweight division, securing his third straight victory via heel hook against Kennedy Nzechukwu in under a minute at UFC Nashville. Despite earning a $50,000 bonus and achieving three rapid finishes, Walker is careful not to let the early hype dictate his next move.
Rather than immediately calling for a top-ranked opponent, a common practice particularly in the currently thin UFC heavyweight landscape, Walker is requesting time to further develop his confidence and ring experience.
Speaking to MMA Fighting, Walker expressed satisfaction with the win, the bonus, and a new contract, but admitted disappointment with his brief moments of panic during the bout. He was caught off guard when Nzechukwu held his glove after a jab, prompting him to chase, which he described as a significant error.
Walker stated that a more seasoned, top-10 ranked opponent would “no doubt” have capitalized on that mistake and knocked him out. He emphasized the need to return to training to correct this, despite his strong wrestling foundation. He speculated the error might stem from inexperience or immaturity influenced by the packed arena and noise. He was thankful he could recover from the misstep swiftly.
Walker is open to returning to the octagon relatively soon, potentially in September for the UFC Paris event or the following month at a scheduled Fight Night in Rio de Janeiro. However, he prefers facing “very tough” undefeated prospect Mario Pinto rather than a top-ranked competitor.
Walker recognizes that fighters in the top 10 operate at a “whole other level.” He repeatedly stated his firm stance: “I don’t want to be there now… I’m not ready.” He expressed a preference to wait perhaps 18 months to two years before entering the rankings, feeling that being ranked prematurely would be against his will and lead to frustration.
Given the current lack of established stars in the heavyweight division, the UFC might not afford him this gradual approach, potentially booking him against someone ranked between 11 and 15. Walker believes his potential for a bright future hinges on the promotion’s willingness to be patient with his development, asserting it depends entirely on how the UFC views him.
Walker articulated that if the UFC aims for him to become a heavyweight star, they will demonstrate patience. Conversely, if their goal is simply to push him into the rankings, where he might win one fight, lose four, get cut, and lose anonymity, they will rush him. He acknowledged it’s the UFC’s decision and he will “dance the music they play,” but stressed that his personal development plans must align with the company’s strategy for him to reach his full athletic potential and benefit the promotion. He reiterated his need for time to evolve into a better version of himself for the UFC, believing that with patience, he could become a significant star.
Walker referenced Tallison Teixeira and his own brother, Johnny Walker, as cautionary tales of fighters potentially being rushed. Teixeira, after just one quick UFC knockout win, was elevated to a main event against Derrick Lewis and finished equally quickly. Walker’s brother Johnny experienced a rapid ascent fueled by a series of knockouts but lost to Corey Anderson and currently holds a mixed record in the promotion.
Walker expressed sadness over Teixeira’s loss but felt he wasn’t prepared for top-8 contenders like Derrick Lewis, highlighting Lewis’s vastly different experience, power, and physical build. Although the stoppage was quick, he worried about the potential for significant damage if the fight had continued, stating Teixeira “could be f*cked now.” He emphasized the importance of remaining grounded, confronting one’s reality, and acknowledging personal limitations, paraphrasing the idea that “a wise man knows his limits.”
Walker shared a previously unexpressed thought, recounting how his brother Johnny was quickly touted as a future opponent for Jon Jones after defeating “three cans” (excluding Khalil Rountree). He recalled his coach advising Johnny he wasn’t ready for Corey Anderson, while another coach insisted he was and would proceed to fight Jon Jones. He noted the honesty of Russian trainers who laughed at the notion, which offended Johnny. Walker, however, prefers uncomfortable truths over flattering lies that ultimately lead to failure when the supporters disappear.
For the weigh-ins, Walker notably wore a cowboy hat and rubber feet around his neck, symbolizing his heel hook finishes. He initially intended to use these props for face-offs and the walkout but his wife advised against it, urging him to remain focused and serious for those moments, reminding him that *he* would bear the consequences of a loss.
Walker observed that gaining fame and wealth can naturally lead to ego and a sense of invincibility. He stressed the importance of listening to others to maintain perspective and set boundaries. While everyone has flaws, there are acceptable limits. He noted his brother has matured significantly and is now receptive to honest feedback, just as Valter listens to him.
Walker recounted a historical anecdote about a Greek warrior king who had a slave tasked with whispering “You’re just a man” behind him during triumphs to temper his ego. He considers this principle crucial for athletes, particularly those in the UFC, where the fight week atmosphere with fans, arena, photoshoots, and interviews can easily make one feel like an untouchable star. He concluded that significant maturity is required to navigate this environment successfully and avoid negative outcomes.
