“Something weird will happen” – Magomed Ankalaev vs Johnny Walker rematch set to ignite UFC 2024 opener sending fans into a frenzy

The rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker was just declared official following the disputed conclusion of the UFC 294 contest.

“Something weird will happen” – Magomed Ankalaev vs Johnny Walker rematch set to ignite UFC 2024 opener sending fans into a frenzy

Johnny Walker vs Magomed Ankalaev rematch ( Image via Imago / Instagram )

Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker are set for a rematch after their first fight at UFC 294 ended in chaos. The match concluded in the first round with a controversial stoppage due to an illegal knee from Ankalaev, leading to a ‘no contest’ declaration.

The confusion surrounding the initial match has generated significant interest in the rematch. The fight is scheduled for early 2024. Johnny Walker explained his perspective on the UFC 294 stoppage, contributing to the anticipation for their upcoming bout. Walker expressed his determination to seek retribution for an alleged illegal knee during his rematch.

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The fight ended in a No-Contest in the first round at 3:13 due to an unintentional foul. Magomed Ankalaev delivered an illegal knee to Johnny Walker, who was on one knee at the time. The controversial ending occurred when Ankalaev’s knee struck Walker’s chin while the Brazilian’s knee was down. This prompted the referee, Dan Movahedi, to intervene.

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Johnny Walker’s attempt to feign injury after Ankalaev’s powerful knee caused confusion in the fight. This led to the doctor and referee declaring it a No-Contest. The fight will take place at a UFC Fight Night scheduled for January of 2024, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.

Fans react to Magomed Ankalaev vs Johnny Walker rematch

The news of Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker’s rematch prompted a range of emotions from fans in the MMA community. Walker’s coach John Kavanagh was recently present at Ariel Helwani‘s show The MMA Hour. It was there where the news of the rematch first broke out. Then, the UFC officials made it public. Here are some of the reactions to the rematch from X ( previously known as Twitter ):

Johnny Walker Magomed Ankalaev
Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker at UFC 294 ( Image via X )
https://twitter.com/Davei_Boi/status/1725184388739068109
https://twitter.com/Jabjitsu/status/1725184369931739621

Fans are eager for the Ankalaev vs. Walker rematch, hoping for a decisive outcome and a satisfying resolution to the previous controversy. Magomed Ankalaev’s UFC record is 18 wins, 1 loss, 1 draw, and 1 no-contest. He competes in the Light Heavyweight division and has a current streak of 9 wins. Meanwhile, Johnny Walker’s UFC record is 21 wins, 7 losses, and 1 No Contest.

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