Valter Walker has left no stone unturned in preparing for his second UFC fight.
The Brazilian heavyweight star will face Junior Tafa this weekend at UFC 305 in Perth, Australia, after failing to keep up in his company debut.
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Walker was defeated by Lukasz Brzeski by unanimous decision for the first time in his 12-fight professional MMA career (11-1) in April.
The loss ignited a fire in Walker’s belly, who underwent an epic transformation before his next fight.
Walker normally fights around 260 pounds (18st 8lbs), but he looks much leaner now.
“The Clean Monster” has lost 26 pounds in the lead-up to Saturday night and has visible abs for the first time in his career.
Walker shared his amazing progress on Instagram, writing: “UFC debut 275 lbs, slowly gaining weight.”
“The loss teaches us a lot. 112 kg, now faster and fitter. UFC305 LFG!!!!!!”
In response to his before and after photos, his fans flooded his comments section with praise.
One supporter wrote: “He said after the fight that he would improve his body and he did… Hope you win next time!”
Another commented: “Sensational guy. There are fighters who don’t accept criticism. You have become self-critic and will perform in the next fight. We’re cheering you on.”
A third added: “They are not ready for your prime.”
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Meanwhile, someone else posted: “Damn, boy.”
Walker is the younger brother of UFC light heavyweight contender Johnny Walker.
Signed by the premier MMA promotion after winning the Titan FC heavyweight title with an impressive fourth-round knockout win over Alex Nicholson, he came into the UFC with a lot of hype.
But after losing his debut as a promoter, he can’t afford another slip-up if he wants to keep his UFC dream alive.
His opponent Tafa also lost his first appearance in the UFC when he stepped in for his brother Justin Tafa on 24 hours’ notice to fight Marcos Rogerio de Lima in February.
Tafa was knocked out in the second round but was given a second chance by the UFC management.
