Clash erupts amidst chaos
Facing Off once More
With a previous fight under their belts and a new year on the horizon, Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker are set to lock horns once more in the main event of UFC Fight Night 234. Despite Walker's loss in their first bout, optimism for a Brazilian win this time is minimal, as the odds gap between the two has widened. But is an easy victory for Ankalaev truly a given?
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The Man from Brazil: Johnny Walker
Sitting at 7th in the division rankings, Johnny Walker brings a unique blend of jiu-jitsu, muay thai, and unconventional style to the ring. Originally making waves in European organizations UCMMA and EBD, Walker became a recognized force in the UFC with 4 "Performance of the Night" awards and 6 early victories.
Leveraging the Unorthodox
Known for his taunting and unpredictable movements, Walker is a dangerous striker with knockout power in his limbs. Although his ground game has room for improvement, he remains dangerous on the mat, raining down ground-and-pound once he gets on top.
Workshops and Advancements
Despite a rocky past, including two straight losses to top contenders Tiago Santos and Jamal Hill, as well a battle against fellow fighter Magomed Ankalaev that didn't go his way, Walker is now under the tutelage of the right trainers, slowly refining his talent with each passing day.
The Russian Stalwart: Magomed Ankalaev
As the 3rd ranked contender, Ankalaev has a decorated history, including a Master of Sports in combat sambo, World Champion status in mixed martial arts, and several impressive wins against respected fighters like Smith, Santos, and Nikita Krylov.
A Balanced and Precise Fighter
Ankalaev is a technically sound striker with fast and accurate kicks, solid takedown defense, and a knack for controlling the tempo of a fight. He's also effective on the ground, exhibiting top control and a solid ground-and-pound game. However, his submission game could use some improvement.
Focused and Ready
Despite recent lackluster performances, including a draw against Jan Blachowicz and a loss to Johnny Walker, Ankalaev has been working hard to tighten up his game and navigate the challenges presented by his rivalry with Walker.
Analyzing the Odds and Betting
In their last fight, Walker's significant reach advantage didn't offer him an edge. However, Walker was able to keep pace with Ankalaev in terms of striking accuracy and speed. To secure a victory in the rematch, Ankalaev must remain cautious and avoid risks in exchanges with Walker, as the chances of Walker landing a lucky punch are high (approximately 5.50).
While Ankalaev has the edge in control and ground combat, it's important for him to make Walker make mistakes before hitting the ground. With better endurance and a higher probability that the fight will not extend beyond three rounds, Ankalaev remains the safer bet, but Walker retains the possibility of a quick knockout in the early rounds. As such, placing bets on Magomed Ankalaev winning by KO/TKO/Submission or betting on Under (2.5) rounds seems like a solid decision.
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Despite Johnny Walker's loss to Magomed Ankalaev in their first bout, the Brazilian fighter's unorthodox style and knockout power make him a dangerous contender in their upcoming rematch. Ankalaev should be careful to avoid risks in exchanges with Walker, as the chances of Walker landing a lucky punch are high. However, if Ankalaev can make Walker make mistakes and control the tempo of the fight, he remains the safer bet to win, especially by KO/TKO/Submission or within the first 2.5 rounds.
