Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker, ranked third and seventh in the bantamweight division, are set to face each other in the UFC Fight Night headline bout. The initial encounter between these fighters was slated for UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi last October.
During the first round of that match, while working in a clinch against the cage, the Russian athlete delivered a prohibited knee strike to his opponent’s head. Consequently, the judges and the medical team declared the fight cancelled.
In the lead-up to the rematch, the odds have remained consistent. Ankalaev remains the favoured fighter, holding a significant advantage over Walker, much like in their October bout. Compared to Walker, he is recognized for his discipline and technical prowess.
Ankalaev can engage in formidable stand-up battles and is considered one of the top fighters in the division. While he may not be a grappling expert, his ground control has allowed him to overcome numerous opponents. The only exception was Jan Blachowicz, whose late December 2022 bout resulted in a draw.
However, Johnny Walker brings his strengths to the table. He surpasses Ankalaev in physical strength and can dispatch any opponent with a single powerful punch. Apart from his exceptional athleticism, the Brazilian poses a threat due to his unorthodox style.
Walker’s specialities include knee jabs, leg reversals, jumping knees, and explosive boxing combinations in stand-up engagements. When facing an opponent like Johnny, it is crucial to proceed with extreme caution, as there is a significant risk of succumbing to a devastating knockout.
| Magomed Ankalaev | Light Heavyweight | Johnny Walker |
|---|---|---|
| 18-1-1 | Record | 20-4-2 |
| 6′ 3″ | Height | 6′ 6″ |
| 204 lbs | Weight | 205 lbs |
| 75″ | Reach | 82″ |
| Gorets | Team | SBG Ireland |
| Russia | Country | Brazil |
UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs. Walker Start Time
- Date:Â Saturday, January 13
- Venue: UFC Apex, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
- Main card: 7 p.m. ET / 12 a.m. UK (Sunday)
- Main event (approx): 10 p.m. ET / 3 a.m. UK (Sunday)
Main card
- Magomed Ankalaev vs. Johnny Walker; Light Heavyweight
- Matheus Nicolau vs. Manel Kape; Flyweight
- Jim Miller vs. Gabriel BenÃtez; Lightweight
- Ricky Simón vs. Mario Bautista; Bantamweight
- Phil Hawes vs. Brunno Ferreira; Middleweight
Prelims
- Andrei Arlovski vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta; Heavyweight
- Matthew Semelsberger vs. Preston Parsons; Welterweight
- Marcus McGhee vs. Gaston Bolanos; Bantamweight
- Farid Basharat vs. Taylor Lapilus; Bantamweight
- Westin Wilson vs. Jean Silva; Featherweight
- Tom Nolan vs. Nikolas Motta; Lightweight
- Joshua Van vs. Felipe Bunes; Flyweight
Ankalaev vs. Walker Live Stream and TV Channel
Here are the details on how to watch the card in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom:
United States:
The prelims and the main card will be streamed live on ESPN+. The subscription costs $10.99 per month, with an annual subscription available for $109.99. On television, the event will be simulcast on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (Spanish), accessible through Hulu Live TV, Sling TV, Fubo TV, AT&T TV, and YouTube TV. It can also be viewed on Fight Pass, which is priced at $9.99 per month and $95.99 per year.
Canada:
All UFC Fight Night events are available in Canada via TSN5 or the TSN App. You can access TSN with your cable provider details or subscribe to the service for streaming only at $19.99 a month (plus tax).
United Kingdom:
The event will be shown in the United Kingdom on TNT Sports using the Discovery+ app or via the web player. Monthly subscriptions are available at £29.99 contract-free and do not require a broadband connection. The subscription renews automatically and can be cancelled at any time.
