
UFC Fight Night: Walker vs. Zhang - Best Bets and Predictions
Previewing the UFC Fight Night event featuring Johnny Walker against Zhang Mingyang, including analysis, odds, and the latest predictions.
Ranked light heavyweights are set to clash on Saturday as Number 13 Johnny Walker faces Number 14 Zhang Mingyang during UFC Fight Night from the Shanghai Indoor Stadium in Xuhui District, China. The event kicks off at 6 a.m. ET. Walker aims to break a two-year winless streak after being knocked out by Volkan Oezdemir on June 22, 2024. In contrast, Zhang enters this bout following a TKO victory over Anthony Smith earlier this April.
Zhang is the favorite at -375, implying a risk of $375 for a $100 profit, while Walker, the underdog, is at +295 in the latest odds from DraftKings Sportsbook. A delayed co-main event between Brian Ortega and Aljamain Sterling has been canceled.
Before finalizing any picks for UFC Fight Night: Walker vs. Zhang, check out the insights and betting guidance from the expert, Daniel Vithlani, who has a proven track record as a successful UFC bettor since his debut in January 2023 with a 5-0 record.
Walker vs. Zhang Overview
Zhang, 27, originally from Fuyang, Anhui, China, has won his last 12 fights, including his most recent four in the UFC. He holds accolades such as three Performance of the Night awards and was named 2024’s sixth-best Newcomer. Zhang began his MMA career in December 2014 and has compiled a 19-6 record with 13 KO victories and six submissions. His background includes competitive Sanda, winning youth championships.
Walker, 33, hails from Brazil but now fights out of Dublin, Ireland. After debuting in professional fighting in December 2013, he gained recognition in Dana White’s Contender Series Brazil 2, securing a spot in the UFC in 2018. With an overall record of 21-9-1, Walker has 16 KO wins, three by submission, two by decision, and one no contest, along with four Performance of the Night titles.
Fight Predictions
Among Vithlani’s selections is Su Young You (-135) to triumph over Long Xiao (+115) in a bantamweight matchup.
“Xiao brings pressure, often prompting opponents to engage in hectic exchanges. His striking is strong, yet he can be hit easily. You, a skillful grappler, can minimize Xiao’s effectiveness by securing takedowns early in the fight. If he establishes his ground game early, You has the potential to win the round.”
Fight Card and Odds
For the fight card:
- Johnny Walker (+295) vs. Zhang Mingyang (-375)
- Sergei Pavlovich (-250) vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta (+205)
- Sumudaerji (-170) vs. Kevin Borjas (+142)
- Taiyilake Nueraji (-520) vs. Kiefer Crosbie (+390)
Feel free to verify the details and see all betting updates at SportsLine.