Walker Eyes Heavyweight Jump After Ngannou Training Sessions

Johnny Walker is growing tired of the grueling cut to 205 pounds and has his sights set on a heavyweight debut in the near future. The Brazilian light heavyweight contender, who faces Dominick Reyes at UFC 327 this Saturday in Miami, revealed that his weight-cutting struggles may soon lead him to explore opportunities in the heavyweight division.

Walker's confidence in making the jump stems from his recent training experiences with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in Las Vegas. Despite currently maintaining a 44-pound weight disadvantage while dieting down to light heavyweight, Walker has held his own against "The Predator" in sparring sessions.

"I've been training with Francis Ngannou, sparring with him," Walker explained to MMA Fighting. "Even while dieting, with about a 44-pound difference since I'm much lighter now, I've been able to train with him just fine. Even in wrestling, strength, and ground-and-pound. If I can do that while dieting, imagine without it?"

The 32-year-old fighter has compiled an 8-7 record in the UFC's light heavyweight division, with notable victories over former title challengers Khalil Rountree Jr. and Anthony Smith. However, Walker believes his performance is compromised by the demanding weight cut process.

"It'd be way better [at heavyweight] because on a diet I can't train properly," Walker stated. "I get dizzy, low on energy because of the lack of carbs. I can't wait to move up and be able to train at 100 percent, even close to the fight."

Walker's training camp in Las Vegas has provided him with elite-level preparation alongside multiple former champions. In addition to his work with Ngannou, he has completed training sessions with former middleweight champion Sean Strickland, giving him confidence that he can compete with the sport's top athletes regardless of weight class.

"I did two five-minute rounds with Sean Strickland, a former champion, and then one with Francis, also a former champion. It was smooth. I didn't feel much difference in strength," Walker noted.

Despite his heavyweight aspirations, Walker remains focused on his immediate goal of climbing the light heavyweight rankings. A victory over Reyes, who previously challenged Jon Jones for the title, could position Walker for a title shot in a division currently featuring a vacant championship.

"If I get past him, it'll show I can fight in the top 5, top 2. One or two more fights and it's a title shot," Walker said about his upcoming bout with Reyes.

The timing of Walker's potential division change remains flexible. He indicated that an interesting heavyweight opportunity could accelerate his move, though he plans to pursue the 205-pound belt for at least two to three more fights if everything goes according to plan.

"Whatever comes up, I'll take it. I just want to fight," Walker concluded, emphasizing his readiness to compete in either division.