“We’re like gladiators and people are watching,” Walker said of fighting in a full arena. “When you fight in APEX and closed arenas, of course you know people are watching you at home, but it’s not the same when you can hear people react when you land a big punch, when you win a fight and everyone celebrates with you. It’s different.”
After the two losses, Walker decided to make some changes to his camp and training to make improvements and prepare for Cutelaba. These changes sent him to Thailand, where he focused on a variety of different aspects.
UFC 279 INTEGRATED: Episode 1 | Episode 2 | Episode 3 | Episode 4
“I spent months in Thailand, training Muay Thai, lots of boxing, defensive boxing, MMA, jiu-jitsu,” Walker said. “I improved all my skills, but I worked a lot on my defense, because I got caught last time, so I have to be confident not to get caught again, hands up, chin down. “
Cutelaba is also looking to get back into the win column after a first-round loss to Ryan Spann in May. The 28-year-old has a UFC record of 5-6-1 after fights against Magomed Ankalaev, Glover Teixeira and Jared Cannonier.
