With the victory, Walker snaps a three-fight winless streak (two losses and one no contest). The victory was his first since he beat Anthony Smith by unanimous decision in May 2023. In defeat, Zhang loses for the first time in the UFC after promotional victories over Brendson Ribeiro, Ozzy Diaz, and Anthony Smith.

Tonight's UFC Fight Night looks to inject some ferocious Chinese talent into the light heavyweight division. Prolific finisher Mingyang Zhang has ended all 19 of his wins inside the first round, and standing in the way of a top spot in the 205 division is perennial contender Johnny Walker.

The opening to the fight was reminiscent of how Khamzat Chimaev began his path to victory against Kevin Holland at UFC 279. Chimaev was blasted for a controversial move that saw him fake a glove touch before dragging ‘Big Mouth’ down and ragdolling him en route to a quick submission.