Mick Parkin expects "crazy" Johnny Walker at UFC 332
The British heavyweight believes Walker’s athleticism could make him dangerous, but also leave openings.
Ahead of his matchup against Johnny Walker, Mick Parkin expects his opponent to start fast when they meet at UFC 332. The British fighter will welcome Walker to the heavyweight division at the Oct. 3 event in Salt Lake City, Utah, and is prepared for the Brazilian's unorthodox style inside the Octagon.
Mick Parkin Expects Unorthodox Johnny Walker
After suffering a split decision loss to Dominick Reyes in April, Walker moved up to heavyweight and will make his divisional debut at UFC 332. Although the Brazilian is known for his explosive and unpredictable striking, Parkin doesn't seem too concerned about it. In fact, the Englishman expects Walker to try to use his speed and athleticism against a bigger opponent, but is confident he is prepared for any approach.
"I think it’s going to be a crazy, explosive, athletic start where he is jumping around, or he might run away and try and point score with us," Parkin told Bloody Elbow. "[...] I’m prepared for him to start fast and crazy. I’ve got a good game plan if he does go crazy. I’ve got a game plan if he looks to run. So we’ll just see on the night."
Mick Parkin Believes Johnny Walker's Style Leaves Openings
Parkin is also aware that Walker’s unorthodox style can make him difficult to predict inside the Octagon. However, the British fighter believes that the Brazilian's approach could also create opportunities he could take advantage of during the fight.
"Going to heavyweight, you think he’s going to think he’s going to be more fast and athletic than the bigger guys, and he might just run around. [...] You wouldn’t teach anybody to fight like that because of his technique. He’s there to be hit, but he’s also dangerous, and a flip of a coin sometimes. So I’ll not be taking any crazy risks."
Parkin enters the fight with a 10-1 record and will be looking to return to the win column after suffering the first loss of his professional career against Marcin Tybura in March 2025.
