Walker Offers To Step In At UFC 334 After KO Win
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Johnny Walker is willing to make a dangerously quick return to action if the UFC heavyweight title fight falls apart this weekend.
The Brazilian knocked out Waldo Cortes-Acosta at UFC Vegas 124 on Saturday and immediately raised the possibility of filling in at UFC 334, where Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit are scheduled to contest the vacant belt. Walker told MMA Fighting he could be ready despite the compressed timeline.
🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to UFC 334 on Ticketmaster →
Walker Claims No Serious Injuries From Saturday Knockout
The 32-year-old said facial swelling from absorbing punches was his only issue after the Cortes-Acosta bout. Walker explained to MMA Fighting that he avoided major damage and remains available should either title challenger withdraw.
Walker acknowledged the timing would be extreme but said championship stakes change the calculation. Under normal circumstances, he expects to return between February and March.
🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to UFC 334 on Ticketmaster →
He also mentioned Hokit as a potential opponent if the challenger loses this weekend. Walker argued his performance against Cortes-Acosta demonstrated his readiness for top-tier competition despite entering the fight without a full training camp.
UFC 334 takes place this Saturday. Walker's win moved him into position for a significant heavyweight assignment in early 2027.
Photo by Sam Moghadam on Unsplash
Original reporting:
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