Kicking off the UFC 279 main card was Johnny Walker vs. Ion Cutelaba in a light heavyweight showdown. Walker, who had lost four of his last five, stepped into the Octagon desperately looking for a win to keep his spot on the roster. Cutelaba entered the bout coming off a loss to Ryan Spann in May but has fared better than his opponent as of late, going 2-3 in his last five outings.
UFC 279: Johnny Walker vs. Ion Cutelaba
Round 1
Cutelaba opens with a calf kick, then immediately goes high on Walker, grazing him. Walker returns his own high kick, but Cutelaba is able to partially catch the kick and trip Walker’s other leg sending him to the canvas. Cutelaba gains top control less than a minute into the round. Against the fence, it’s difficult for Cutelaba to improve his position and land any significant strikes from the top position. Cutelaba snatches the arm, but Walker is able to escape out the back door and work his way to his feet with control of Cutelaba’s back. Walker uses his strength to lift and force Cutelaba to the mat, immediately jumping on his back and threatening a rear-naked choke. After a few moments, Walker is able to sink in the choke forcing Cutelaba to tap out with just seconds remaining in the round.
Official Result: Johnny Walker defeats Ion Cutelaba via submission (rear-naked choke) at 4:37 of Round 1.
Highlights From Johnny Walker vs. Ion Cutelaba at UFC 279
DO YA DANCE JOHNNY DO YA DANCE 🕺 #UFC279 pic.twitter.com/aTdwRygx3o
— UFC (@ufc) September 11, 2022
ROUND ONE SUBMISSION!!!@JohnnyWalker is BACK! #UFC279 pic.twitter.com/eWGhLRH0NH
— UFC (@ufc) September 11, 2022
REDEMPTION FOR THE WORM 😆 🪱 #UFC279 pic.twitter.com/L2IHBf95vV
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) September 11, 2022
That's right @JohnnyWalker, you're the winner! #UFC279 pic.twitter.com/c7O86SokTP
— UFC (@ufc) September 11, 2022
