Shanghai, china – Johnny walker delivered a major upset Saturday, defeating Zhang Mingyang in the main event of UFC Fight Night. The event marked the organization’s first return to China in six years and immediately delivered a memorable moment for fans.

Walker Ends Zhang’s Winning Streak

The 33-year-old Brazilian Walker halted a two-fight losing streak with a second-round technical knockout of Zhang Mingyang. Zhang had been on an impressive 12-fight winning run, having not tasted defeat since 2019 and hadn’t progressed past the first round since 2018.

Despite a challenging first round where Zhang controlled the pace and landed significant strikes, Walker adjusted his strategy in the second. He targeted Zhang’s legs with powerful calf kicks, visibly affecting the Chinese fighter’s mobility. A second kick ultimately caused Zhang to fall, allowing Walker to capitalize with ground-and-pound for the finish at 2:37 of the round.

“my kick is awesome, right?” Walker exclaimed following his victory. He also expressed respect for his opponent, stating, “A tough fighter from China, a lot of straight wins. It’s a really good experience to fight a guy that’s very tough.”

Walker’s record now stands at 22-9,with one no contest. Zhang’s record falls to 19-7. Currently,walker is ranked No. 13 by the UFC, while Zhang holds the No. 14 position.

Johnny Walker celebrates his victory over Zhang Mingyang.
Johnny walker’s second-round TKO in Shanghai ended a 12-fight winning streak by Zhang Mingyang. Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Sterling Dominates Ortega in Catchweight Bout

In the co-main event, Aljamain Sterling secured a unanimous decision victory over Brian Ortega in a 153-pound catchweight match. The bout was held at a non-standard weight due to Ortega’s inability to meet the featherweight limit of 146 pounds.

Sterling, a former Bantamweight Champion, demonstrated superior speed and technique throughout the five rounds, earning scores of 50-45 from all three judges. Ortega managed to land onyl 2 of 28 strikes in the first round and struggled to compete with Sterling’s pace.

This win marked Sterling’s second victory in his last three fights, following a loss that ended a nine-fight winning streak in 2023. Ortega,who has now lost his last two bouts and five of his last seven,saw his record fall to 16-5 with one no contest while Sterling improved to 25-5.

Pavlovich Overcomes Cortes-Acosta

The evening also featured a heavyweight clash between Sergei Pavlovich and Waldo Cortes-Acosta. Pavlovich emerged victorious with a win over the ninth-ranked Cortes-Acosta with scores of 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28. Pavlovich has won eight of his past ten fights, though previously suffered a defeat to current champion Tom Aspinall less than two years ago.

Fighter Result Method Round Time
Johnny Walker Win TKO 2 2:37
Aljamain Sterling Win Unanimous Decision 5
Sergei Pavlovich Win unanimous Decision 3

Did you know? The UFC’s return to China after six years underscores the promotion’s strategic focus on expanding its global reach, particularly in the Asian market.

Pro Tip: When analyzing UFC fights, consider the fighters’ adjustments between rounds. Walker’s shift to leg kicks proved pivotal in his victory over Zhang.