UFC Fight Night: Covington vs Woodley: Johnny Walker vs Ryan Spann- Prediction and Analysis

UFC light heavyweights Johnny Walker and Ryan Spann are set to face off on the main card at UFC Fight Night 178 on September 19. The event is headlined by Colby Covington and Tyron Woodley in a fight that’s many years in the making. Also, following the event, the promotion will make their anticipated return to Yas Fight Island after a successful first appearance.

The main card itself is comparable to any pay-per-view event, much in part due to the aforementioned 205-pounder’s presence. Both the athletes are fan-favorite fighters who never fail to deliver exciting scraps that usually end in a violent finish.

The 205-pound division is wide open following Jon Jones’ departure from the weight class. ‘Bones’ Jones’ absence opens the door to contenders to make a run at the gold with a few solid wins.

UFC light heavyweights: Johnny Walker vs Ryan Spann

The explosive Brazilian striker, Walker, is on a two-fight skid after having a magnificent start in the UFC. He may have fallen out of contention but will have to halt Ryan Spann’s ascent to begin an upward trajectory.

Chiefly, he relies on an explosive compound movement that catches his opponents off guard. He’s incredibly agile for his stature as he stands at 6’6”. However, Johnny Walker will have to be defensively responsible when facing the heavy-handed Spann.

Ryan Spann is on an 8-fight win streak via Sherdog, and he has made his presence known within the division. Additionally, he’s displayed versatility in his overall game whether it be striking or grappling. ‘Superman’ will be keen to put up a statement performance in a fight against a massive name in Walker. A huge win over Johnny Walker will catapult him into the race for contention.

Spann comes in with excellent cardio in the 205-pound division and will look to catch Walker as the fight progresses. Coupled with the impressive cardio, he sets in range effectively with leg kicks and steep kicks to the thigh. This has historically allowed him to look for the power punch that usually spells the end of the fight.

Prediction: Ryan Spann to claim a third-round KO