Johnny Walker is ready to shake things up—literally and figuratively. The UFC light heavyweight standout is making the leap to the heavyweight division, targeting a fresh start at UFC Belgrade on August 1st.
Sources confirmed to MMA Fighting that Walker is set to face Ante Delija at Belgrade Arena in Serbia. Verbal agreements are in place, and contracts are expected to be signed soon. It's a bold move for Walker, who's been struggling to find his footing in the 205-pound weight class.
Walker's recent performance at UFC 327 was a tough pill to swallow. He dropped a split decision to Dominick Reyes in a fight that lacked the fireworks fans have come to expect from the Brazilian. With just two wins in his last six outings, it's clear that something had to change. Training alongside heavyweights like Francis Ngannou, Walker has been building confidence in his ability to handle the extra weight and power. "I feel ready for a new chapter," he's hinted, and the move to heavyweight offers just that.
On the other side of the Octagon, Ante Delija brings serious credentials. The former PFL heavyweight season champion made a splash in his UFC debut with a first-round finish of Marcin Tybura at UFC Vegas 110. But since then, it's been a rocky road—Delija has dropped back-to-back fights to Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Serghei Spivac. Still, his grappling-heavy style and finishing ability make him a dangerous test for Walker's heavyweight debut.
This matchup is a crossroads for both fighters. For Walker, it's a chance to reignite his career with a new weight class and a clean slate. For Delija, it's an opportunity to prove he belongs in the UFC's heavyweight elite. Expect fireworks in Belgrade as these two athletes look to make a statement—and don't forget to gear up for the event with the latest fight-night apparel from our collection.
