Johnny Walker snapped a three-fight winless streak with a statement TKO victory over Zhang Mingyang in the main event of UFC Shanghai. Coming in as a big underdog after consecutive knockout losses, the Brazilian light heavyweight turned the tables in the second round with a damaging calf kick that set up the finish.
A Needed Return to Form
Walker began the fight cautiously, mixing in a rare takedown attempt, but struggled with timing after 14 months away from competition. By the second round, he found his rhythm, hurting Zhang with the kick and pouring on pressure until the fight was stopped.
Emotional Aftermath
With his brother Valter in his corner, Walker admitted to feeling emotional after ending his skid. “I’m fighting top 10 for six, seven years, and I fight trained killers. I’m a trained killer too… Everybody can get hurt in this game,” he said in his post-fight interview.
Regained Confidence
Walker credited his training at Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas for restoring belief, but acknowledged the long layoff had made him hesitant early. Once he settled in, however, he embraced the chaos and absorbed some heavy shots before rallying back. “Good, clean shots. I have chin, motherf*ckers!” he declared.
What’s Next
Back in the win column for the first time since May 2023, Walker improved to 8-6 with one no contest in the UFC, with six of those victories coming by knockout. As for what’s ahead, he remains unconcerned with rankings or callouts: “Whatever the matchmakers do, I accept.”
Result: Johnny Walker def. Zhang Mingyang via TKO (Round 2)
