Volkan Oezdemir declares himself a 3:1 favorite against Johnny Walker for UFC Saudi Arabia clash: "Just show me a little bit of neck"
Volkan Oezdemir recently weighed in on his upcoming bout against Johnny Walker and made a bold claim regarding his chances. The former UFC light heavyweight title challenger even noted that he believes he is a heavy favorite against the Brazilian.
'No Time' and Walker are scheduled to compete on the main card of UFC Saudi Arabia, which takes place this Saturday. The bout will be an excellent opportunity for both as an impressive win could result in the winner getting themselves back into the top 5.
While speaking to Red Corner MMA, the 34-year-old responded to the Brazilian's comments about avenging his teammate's Bogdan Guskov and noted that he is confident of earning a finish. Oezdemir highlighted that Walker is a flashy striker and mentioned that his composure will be a factor in him winning the fight. He said:
"I'm gonna choke him also, yeah?...Yeah, of course [that's the plan]. Just show me a little bit of neck then it's gonna be like that. A little bit on the ground, some ground and pound, turn your back, I'm gonna squeeze it on you. Of course, he's wild...he does his stuff but I think the goal is to stay methodical...I have way more ways to finish the fights. It's gonna be for me like, 3:1, I know I have way more technical stuff than him."
Check out Volkan Oezdemir's comments below:
Comparing MMA records of Volkan Oezdemir and Johnny Walker
Volkan Oezdemir and Johnny Walker match up quite well with each other and are both inside the top-10 in the UFC light heavyweight division.
Walker is currently ranked No. 7 with a 21-8 (1) MMA record and is coming off a knockout loss to Magomed Ankalaev after they fought to a no contest three months prior. Prior to the bouts against Ankalaev, the Brazilian had been riding a three fight winning streak that included wins over Anthony Smith, Paul Craig and Ion Cutelaba.
Meanwhile, 'No Time' is currently ranked No. 9 with a 19-7 MMA record and is coming off an impressive first round submission win over Bogdan Guskov. Oezdemir will attempt to continue his piling up wins in hopes of earning his first light heavyweight title shot since challenging Daniel Cormier in 2018.
Check out Dana White announcing the UFC Saudi Arabia card featuring Johnny Walker vs. Volkan Oezdemir below: