Johnny Walker Secures Upset TKO Over Zhang in UFC Shanghai Return

Johnny Walker pulled off a major upset by defeating Zhang Mingyang via second-round TKO at UFC Fight Night in Shanghai, ending Zhang's 12-fight winning streak and marking Walker's first victory in over two years. Despite Zhang's early dominance in the first round, Walker changed tactics and targeted Zhang's lead leg with calf kicks, which critically impaired Zhang's mobility and led to the fight's decisive finish. Walker endured heavy shots but showed resilience and strategic adaptability, capitalizing on Zhang's compromised state with a relentless ground-and-pound attack that forced the referee to stop the fight. The win repositions Walker as a dangerous light heavyweight contender, while Zhang faces a setback despite his previous undefeated UFC run since 2019. The fight highlighted Walker's durability and striking prowess, with Walker expressing intent to continue challenging top fighters in the division. Zhang, meanwhile, will need to address skill gaps exposed in this bout to compete with the upper tier of the light heavyweight division.