Ankalaev KOs Walker in 1st UFC main event of 2024

Magomed Ankalaev is back in the UFC light heavyweight title mix following an emphatic victory.

Ankalaev knocked out Johnny Walker at the 2:42 mark of the second round in the UFC Fight Night main event Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.

The bout was a rematch from UFC 294 last October in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Their first fight ended in a no-contest after Ankalaev landed an illegal knee in the first round and the cageside doctor determined Walker was unable to continue.

After Saturday's victory, Ankalaev called for a title shot against champion Alex Pereira.

"I am ready to fight for the title," Ankalaev said through an interpreter. "I have 10 victories in a row. It's been a long time. I'm worth it. Give me that fight for the title now."

To set up the finish, Ankalaev dropped Walker with a heavy right hook midway through the second round and followed up with a ferocious uppercut before referee Marc Goddard stepped in.

Walker got off to a fast start in the fight, landing several high kicks in the first round. But Ankalaev's poise and technique in the stand-up department proved too much.

This was Ankalaev's first win since July 2022, though he was coming off the no-contest against Walker and a split draw in a vacant title fight with Jan Blachowicz. The Russian is now riding a 12-fight unbeaten streak and hasn't lost since his UFC debut in 2018.

Walker was unbeaten in four consecutive bouts heading into the rematch with Ankalaev. The Brazilian suffered his first defeat since being knocked out by Jamahal Hill in February 2022.