Brazilian UFC heavyweight Valter Walker is set to face American Thomas Petersen on July 25 at UFC Abu Dhabi. Walker announced the matchup on social media.

For Walker, who lives and trains in Russia, the bout represents a chance to extend his strong UFC run and continue climbing the heavyweight ranks.

The MMA Series bronze and silver belt holder last competed in October 2025 at UFC 321, where he forced Louie Sutherland to tap in the first round with a heel hook. Walker’s professional record now stands at 15-1. He is riding a four-fight UFC winning streak, with all four victories coming by first-round heel hook.

Petersen last fought April 4, 2026, at UFC Fight Night, defeating Guilherme Pat by majority decision. The American owns an 11-4 professional record.