Magomed Ankalaev v Johnny Walker UFC preview, betting tips & odds

World-class MMA returns for the new year with a UFC Fight Night from the Apex Arena in Las Vegas to settle unfinished business. Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker met at UFC 294 in October 2023, but the bout was deemed a no-contest in the opening round after an illegal knee rendered Walker unable to continue. This rematch will settle the score and bring some order to the light heavyweight division.

Magomed Ankalaev v Johnny Walker fight preview

Magomed Ankalaev vs Johnny Walker

Before the no-contest, Magomed Ankalaev (18-1-1) fought in December 2022 in a curious interim title bout versus Jan Blachowicz that ended in a draw. Both men appeared sluggish and unwilling to engage and left the octagon empty-handed. Prior to that mediocre effort, the Russian had torn through the light heavyweight ranks with nine successive victories. A bold performance here will position Ankalaev for another shot at UFC gold.

Standing 6’3’’ with a 75-inch reach, Ankalaev normally enjoys a physical advantage over his 205-pound opponents. That is not the case in this match-up, and the 31-year-old will be forced to overcome a distinct size disadvantage. His most obvious path to victory will lie in his superior grappling talents, but Ankalaev will need to avoid the long-range weapons of his opponent to get inside where his Sambo grappling skills will be most effective.

Johnny Walker (21-7-0) is a recently reformed wild man who has been working hard on his defence and no longer throws himself headlong into danger in pursuit of spectacular finishes. The change in strategy has paid dividends, and the 31-year-old won three straight contests leading up to his first fight against Ankalaev. He will need to display the same discipline against a tough and technical opponent here, and a win would be considered an upset.

Magomed Ankalaev vs Johnny Walker betting predictions

The Brazilian underdog does possess a solid set of striking options, including heavy punches, elbows, and flying knees, but betting markets are unconvinced of his ability to prevail here. Despite his lengthy odds, Walker can win this fight if he manages the distance and finds a home for his unorthodox striking. His record with the judges is poor, so he might need a finish. Ankalaev has never been knocked out, hence his short quote with the online bookmakers.

Magomed Ankalaev by KO/TKO is the tip at -188.68 with Neds.

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