Walker’s Leg Kicks Steal the Show. Johnny Walker stopped Zhang Mingyang by TKO (leg kicks and punches) at 2:37 of Round 2.
In a highly anticipated light heavyweight showdown, Johnny Walker faced off against Zhang Mingyang in the main event of UFC Fight Night: Walker vs. Zhang at the Shanghai Indoor Stadium. This event marks the UFC’s return to mainland China for the first time since 2019.
Johnny Walker, a seasoned light heavyweight with a professional record of 21–9 has experienced a turbulent stretch in recent years. At UFC 279, Walker reignited confidence in his finishing instincts by defeating Ion Cuțelaba via a first-round rear-naked choke, earning a Performance of the Night bonus. He followed that up with another highlight, securing a first-round TKO over Paul Craig at UFC 283 in January 2023. In May 2023, Walker continued his momentum by defeating veteran Anthony Smith by unanimous decision, showing improved composure.
However, his story changed dramatically in the second half of 2023. In October, his rematch with Magomed Ankalaev ended in a no contest after an illegal knee rendered Walker unable to continue. The rematch came in January 2024, and Walker was knocked out by Ankalaev in the second round, marking one of his toughest setbacks. In June 2024, Walker suffered another first-round knockout, this time at the hands of Volkan Oezdemir. Walker was then slated to fight Bogdan Guskov in early 2025, but withdrew due to injury. He also pulled out of a scheduled bout with Azamat Murzakanov due to injury. As of now, Walker heads into this fight seeking redemption after back-to-back stoppage losses and a long injury.
Zhang Mingyang, his opponent has quickly become one of the most dangerous names in the UFC light heavyweight division. Known for his explosive power and killer instinct, Zhang boasts an impressive 19–6 record and an incredible streak of first-round finishes. He burst onto the UFC scene on February 17, 2024, making his debut at UFC 298. That night, he wasted no time and knocked out Brendson Ribeiro in the very first round, earning himself a well-deserved Performance of the Night bonus.
It was a statement to the entire division. Later that year, on November 23, 2024, Zhang proved his debut wasn’t a mistake. He stepped into the Octagon against Ozzy Diaz at UFC Macau and once again delivered a brutal first-round TKO, showing the world that his power is no accident.
The momentum didn’t stop there. On April 26, 2025, Zhang faced a true veteran of the sport, Anthony Smith. In a fight that many expected to be competitive, Zhang needed just one round to dismantle Smith. The finish was so decisive that it marked the end of Smith’s legendary career, as he announced his retirement right after the fight. Zhang walked away with another Performance of the Night bonsus. and the respect of fans worldwide.
The fight started with both guys sizing each other up right away. Johnny Walker shot for a takedown early, but Zhang flipped it and ended up on top, chopping away with sharp elbows from his guard. Walker got back to his feet without too much damage, then Zhang landed a heavy right hand that rattled him. Walker tried another takedown against the fence but Zhang shut it down cleanly. The round ended with both exchanging solid punches back and forth. Zhang landed the harder shots for the first round of the five rounds
The second round saw a turnaround. Walker started landing hard low kicks, aiming at Zhang’s lead leg. One of those kicks really hurt Zhang, he visibly collapsed. Walker seized the moment, took top control, and unloaded furious ground-and-pound punches and hammer fists raining down. Zhang tried to get up but couldn’t bear weight on that leg. Referee Marc Goddard stepped in around 2:37 of Round 2 to stop it and it was a wrap. Walker pulled off a stunning comeback.
Johnny Walker’s victory in Shanghai wasn’t just another win, it was a statement. After weathering early adversity, he showcased resilience, tactical brilliance, and the kind of finishing instinct that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. With this comeback performance, Walker not only silenced his critics but also reignited his march toward title contention. If anyone doubted his place among the light heavyweight elite, this event delivered a clear and painful reminder that Johnny Walker is still a force to be reckoned with.
