Virna Jandiroba will lead the Brazilian charge at the Etihad Arena next weekend, alongside her opponent, Brazilian-American Mackenzie Dern, Jalton Almeida, Matheus Camilo, and Jaqueline Amorim. However, the contingent could soon witness an addition. Heavyweight contender Valter Walker may potentially be joining them in Abu Dhabi. UFC 321: Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane already boasts a stacked card. But triggered by events at the Rio edition, a slight change now appears on the horizon.

Just a day before the Fight Night in the Marvelous City, controversy erupted. Several news reports revealed that Valter Walker‘s opponent, Mohammad Usman, had withdrawn from their heavyweight bout. Riding a three-win streak, Walker, the younger half-brother of light heavyweight contender Johnny Walker, had pinned many hopes on the clash against Kamaru Usman’s younger brother. But it wasn’t to be, leaving him dejected. After a mock weigh-in where he expressed his disappointment, Walker had to return home. Still, the clouds of gloom may clear. Walker could make an appearance on the card headlined by Tom Aspinall‘s much-anticipated first title defense.

Abu Dhabi awaits Valter Walker

Walker spoke about the situation during an interview with MMA Fighting. Sharing his frustration, he said, “I’m happy I’m gonna fight after two weeks…. I’m gonna have some kind of help from UFC, and after two weeks, I’m gonna have a fight in Abu Dhabi.”

If that fight doesn’t materialize, Walker expects a slot at a December card. “If this happens, it’s gonna be great. If not, I’ll be happy as well fighting in December,” the heavyweight fighter said. UFC has reportedly suggested a fighter for him to face later this month. But the bout hasn’t been officially confirmed, as the agreement hasn’t been signed yet.

Financially, Walker is covered. The UFC compensated him for the canceled fight. But emotionally, he felt miserable. Additional confirmation about his UFC 321 appearance came via a message from Walker’s trainer.

“So, our mission in Rio is complete. Walter’s fight was canceled due to the detection of banned substances in his opponent’s blood. The UFC will move us to Abu Dhabi!” it read.

The Clean Monster: The road to reign

Two years ago, Valter Walker’s UFC debut got off to a rocky start when he pulled out of a bout against Jake Collier on the Fiziev vs. Gamrot card. Months later, when he returned to the Fight Night, he suffered a loss to Lukasz Brzeski.

However, the setbacks seemingly became a catalyst. Turning the tide, he scored his first win by defeating Junior Tafa in the opening round via his trademark heel hook. He kicked off the year with another first-round victory. Both Don’Tale Mayes and Kennedy Nzechukwu fell to his submission after he locked their legs.

Another win could propel Walker higher in the rankings, bringing him closer to his dream of a title shot.

While a final confirmation of his fight is still awaited, this is nonetheless positive news for fans both at home and abroad. Walker may have to return to his base in Moscow to prepare, but he’s ready for the challenge. “If it happens in two weeks, I’m ready. If it happens after one month, I’m ready. I’m ready every time. I don’t make training camp; I’m all the time in shape,” he confirmed.

Stay tuned as further developments emerge in the coming days.

If given a choice, who would you want Valter Walker to face in Abu Dhabi?