Walker Says Volkov Deserves Title Shot Now

Johnny Walker believes Alexander Volkov's lengthy wait for a heavyweight title shot should end.

Speaking to reporters following his knockout victory over Waldo Cortes-Acosta at UFC Vegas 124 on Saturday, Walker made the case that the Russian veteran has earned the right to challenge whoever emerges victorious from the UFC 334 main event between Ciryl Gane and Josh Hokit. The current champion Gane handed Volkov his only defeat across eight recent fights, a split decision loss that drew heavy criticism from observers.

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Walker Backs Volkov For Heavyweight Title Opportunity

Asked about the 52-fight veteran's championship credentials, Walker offered direct support. "Yeah, he does, bro," he said, as reported by MMA Junkie. Walker then called Volkov possibly the toughest fighter on the planet and declared his moment has arrived.

Volkov himself recently downplayed the importance of UFC gold in a conversation with Ariel Helwani. The heavyweight contender said he views himself as a champion independent of any belt and emphasized his clean fighting style compared to rivals who bend the rules.

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Whether the promotion grants Volkov his first UFC title opportunity in 2027 remains to be seen. Gane faces Hokit for the belt at UFC 334 in the coming months.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Alexander Volkov deserves heavyweight title shot, says UFC Vegas 124 winner Johnny Walker: “It’s his time now”