Johnny Walker eyes heavyweight switch after Ngannou sparring

The UFC light heavyweight contender feels ready to make the jump up in weight class.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:42pm

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A dynamic, neon-colored painting depicting two muscular MMA fighters engaged in a high-intensity sparring match, their movements and strikes blurred into a vibrant, expressionistic display of raw power and athleticism.The explosive energy of a heavyweight sparring session between Johnny Walker and Francis Ngannou could propel the light heavyweight contender to a new division.Today in Miami

Johnny Walker is considering a move up to the UFC heavyweight division after successful sparring sessions with former champion Francis Ngannou. Walker, who is scheduled to face Dominick Reyes at UFC 327, believes he can handle the power of the bigger fighters and is eager to train without the restrictions of a strict diet.

Why it matters

Walker's potential move to heavyweight could shake up the division and provide new matchup opportunities for the charismatic Brazilian fighter. His ability to hang with Ngannou in training suggests he may have the size and strength to compete against the division's elite.

The details

Walker has suffered a few knockout losses at light heavyweight, raising questions about his ability to withstand heavy shots. However, after sparring with Ngannou, Walker feels confident he can handle the power of the bigger fighters. He believes moving up to heavyweight will allow him to train at 100% without the restrictions of a strict diet.

  • Walker is scheduled to face Dominick Reyes at UFC 327 on April 15, 2026.
  • Ngannou's MMA return on Netflix is set for May 2026.

The players

Johnny Walker

A 34-year-old Brazilian UFC light heavyweight contender who is considering a move up to heavyweight after successful sparring sessions with Francis Ngannou.

Dominick Reyes

A former UFC light heavyweight title challenger who will face Walker at UFC 327.

Francis Ngannou

The former UFC heavyweight champion who has been training with Walker at Xtreme Couture in preparation for his own MMA return on Netflix.

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What they’re saying

“I'm thinking about it because the diet has been rough. If there's an opportunity, if a heavyweight fight gets cancelled or anything, I'm in.”

— Johnny Walker, UFC Light Heavyweight Contender

“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?”

— Johnny Walker, UFC Light Heavyweight Contender

What’s next

Walker will face Dominick Reyes at UFC 327 on April 15, 2026. If he is successful, he may pursue a move up to the heavyweight division, potentially taking advantage of any last-minute fight cancellations.

The takeaway

Johnny Walker's sparring sessions with heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou have given him the confidence to consider a move up in weight class. This could open up new opportunities for the charismatic Brazilian fighter and shake up the UFC heavyweight division.