What It Means: Ankalaev is an efficient and devastating fighter whose striking is his best attribute despite some solid grappling. On the feet, Ankalaev makes good use of front kicks and body kicks at distance, but his hands are particularly powerful. He doesn’t throw in bunches, but when he does string together a couple strikes, he often has impactful results. He is a patient and methodical fighter, and if things are starting to turn the other way on him, he is comfortable shooting for a takedown and maintaining control.
Johnny Walker
Key Stats: 6:35 average fight time (5th shortest), 53.3% significant strike accuracy (7th), 2.39 strikes absorbed per minute (3rd)
What It Means: Perhaps the most chaotic fighter on the roster, Johnny Walker is an electric presence in the Octagon. At 6-foot-5, Walker possesses special physical attributes and explosiveness, which he uses to his athletic advantage whether it’s staying on the outside or leaping into range with a flying technique. Walker has gotten a little more patient, but, in general, he cannot help but go for the home run strike at some point throughout a fight.
RECAP: Last Time In Abu Dhabi | UFC 30th Anniversary
What to Look For in the Fight: Essentially, Ankalaev is tasked with making sure he doesn’t get caught by something wild from Walker. The Brazilian has shown a faulty chin at times, so Ankalaev should be able to find a rattling shot if he takes his time. On the other hand, Walker showed some more patience in his decision win over Anthony Smith, all the while commanding the Octagon and peppering Smith with powerful shots. Walker should be able to create some chaotic scrambles if Ankalaev shoots, but he cannot get reckless.
