Valter Walker dismisses Gable Steveson hype, eyes Jon Jones

UFC heavyweight Valter Walker is unimpressed by Gable Steveson's perfect start and believes the Olympic gold medalist is beatable.

Steveson, who holds a 4-0 record with four first-round knockouts, most recently destroyed Elisha Ellison at UFC 329 in Las Vegas earlier this month. But Walker told MMA Fighting that he watched the performance and didn't see anything special. The Brazilian said fans misunderstand what they're watching when they hype Steveson's wrestling credentials.

Walker challenges Steveson and Hokit for next fight

Walker also questioned Josh Hokit's standing in the division, despite Hokit's recent knockout of Derrick Lewis at the UFC White House event. The 28-year-old Brazilian has won four straight fights, all by first-round heel hook, and made submission history at UFC 321 despite fighting with a broken leg.

Walker said he would welcome a matchup with either Steveson or Hokit and described a fantasy scenario in which he would beat Steveson, climb the cage, and confront Jon Jones. He framed the potential bout as a chance to redirect the spotlight and prove himself against the division's rising names.

Both Steveson and Hokit have just competed, so the timing could align for Walker's return. Whether UFC matchmakers pursue either fight remains unclear.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — UFC’s record-setting submission ace vows to beat Gable Steveson, spit in Jon Jones’ face