UPDATE: The UFC is back in China for the first time since 2019, as UFC Fight Night kicks off at 6 a.m. ET today, with prelims starting at 3 a.m. ET on ESPN+. The main event features rising star Zhang Mingyang, who boasts three consecutive first-round knockouts in his UFC career, taking on the formidable Johnny Walker, known for his explosive finishes.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for Walker, who has struggled recently with a 4-6-1 record after winning his first three UFC fights via first-round KO. With losses in his last two bouts, Walker’s future in the UFC is on the line. Meanwhile, Zhang has not tasted defeat since October 2019 and is favored to win this matchup.
In the co-main event, two top-10 featherweights clash as former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling faces off against title challenger Brian Ortega. Both fighters are renowned for their grappling skills, with each having four submission victories since 2015. This fight’s outcome is expected to be closely contested, making it a must-watch for fans.
Latest predictions highlight Zhang’s power: ESPN MMA analyst Din Thomas predicts a TKO victory for Zhang, citing Walker’s vulnerability. “Johnny Walker is still too chinny for me. Zhang has good punching power and killer instincts, which spell disaster for Walker,” Thomas stated.
Betting expert Ian Parker emphasizes the urgency of this matchup, advising fans to consider Zhang as a solid anchor in parlays at odds of -350, and betting on the fight to end under 1.5 rounds at -325. “Do not blink,” Parker warns, suggesting another KO loss for Walker could lead to his exit from the UFC.
As excitement builds, the 2025 PFL World Championships also conclude this week, with finals scheduled for 9 p.m. ET on ESPN. Tournament winners will be crowned in the middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight divisions, adding to the night’s electrifying atmosphere.
In addition to the fighters’ stats, fans are eager for Parker’s best bets on both the UFC and PFL cards. As the action unfolds, keep an eye on Sterling and Ortega, both known for their resilience—this fight is predicted to go deep into the rounds, with Parker suggesting fans bet on over 4.5 rounds or the fight going the distance.
Stay tuned as the fight night unfolds, and don’t miss the chance to catch all the action live! This is a pivotal moment for both Zhang and Walker as they step into the octagon, and fans won’t want to miss a second. For the latest odds and updates, visit ESPN BET.
