Let's run this one back.
Light heavyweights Johnny Walker and Magomed Ankalaev will square off this Saturday (Jan. 13) at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
This matchup comes after the duo fought at UFC 294, when the fight ended in a questionable no-contest due to an illegal knee from Ankalaev. This time, Walker and Ankalaev have five rounds to knock each other around.
The bout between Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker has been called a no contest after Walker was deemed unable to continue due to an illegal knee from Ankalaev. #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/Mvy6NwaDso
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) October 21, 2023
Like last time, Ankalaev is a big favorite. The Dagestani fighter comes in at -500, while Walker is the +380 underdog.
Ankalaev vs Walker Betting Odds
| Fighter | Odds |
|---|---|
| Johnny Walker | +380 |
| Magomed Ankalaev | -500 |
Odds as of Jan. 8
Our odds calculator suggests Ankalaev's -500 odds equate to an implied win probability of 83.33%, meaning a $100 bet on him pays out $120. Walker's +380 underdog odds imply a 20.83% chance to win, and a $100 bet on him pays out $480.
How To Watch UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs Walker
- Date/Time: January 13, 4 p.m. ET
- Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
- Arena: UFC Apex
- Where to Watch: ESPN+, Cable Provider
Walker vs Ankalaev Betting Preview: Odds Tell the full story... Sort Of
Walker should be the underdog in this fight. If it weren't for a lack of activity at UFC 282, Ankalaev could've easily been the UFC's light heavyweight champion.
But the Brazilian Walker has changed things up since his last loss, and that should inspire Walker bettors.
How To Bet Walker
Before Walker put a royal beating on Ion Cutelaba at UFC 279, he proclaimed himself as a changed man. The big difference? Less marijuana and more time in the gym.
Under the guidance of head coach John Kavanagh (Conor McGregor's coach), the 31-year-old has greatly improved over his last three fights. Walker's striking looks more poised and he's using his length to better control the Octagon.
A composed Walker is a successful Walker, and that mantra will be extra important against Ankalaev's deadly wrestling offense. Kavanagh stresses jabs, low kicks, and forward pressure. If the Brazilian listens and marches across the Octagon for 15 minutes, he can score a huge upset.
At +380, Walker is easily the best underdog bet on the card. That's enough value. If you want a hail mary, bet on Walker to win by decision.
How to Bet Ankalaev
Folks forget how well-rounded Ankalaev is. Given his Dagestani heritage, the 31-year-old has great wrestling instincts, but his MMA roots come as a striker.
Ankalaev can fold anybody at 205 pounds or opt for a more methodical takedown and work-to-mount approach. Either could find success against Walker, especially if the Brazilian goes rogue and steers from his coach's gameplan.
I'm intrigued by a bet on Ankalaev to win by KO/TKO. That should chop away some of the chalk.
Ankalaev vs Walker Betting Pick
I'm betting Walker to win SU at +380. On top of that, I'll be playing the OVER 2.5 and a small wager on Walker by decision.
