UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2
Tale of the Tape
Walker Guskov
Height: 6'6" 6'3"
Weight: 205 205
Reach: 82" 76"
Stance: Orthodox Orthodox
Age: 32 32
Statistical Comparison
Striking Metrics
- Walker lands more volume (3.87 vs 3.13 SLpM)
- Walker has better accuracy (53% vs 48%)
- Walker absorbs fewer strikes (3.12 vs 3.70 SApM)
- Similar defensive stats (44% vs 47%)
Grappling Metrics
- Walker shows more diverse offense with takedown threats
- Walker has demonstrated submission ability (0.9 attempts/15min)
- Guskov has slightly better TD defense (66% vs 57%)
- Walker’s 100% TD accuracy vs Guskov’s 0% attempts
Recent Form Analysis
Johnny Walker:
- Coming off back-to-back losses to elite competition (Oezdemir, Ankalaev)
- Prior to losses had a solid 3-fight win streak
- Shows finishing ability but vulnerability to being finished
- 7 of last 8 fights ended inside distance
Bogdan Guskov:
- On 2-fight win streak with impressive KO power
- Both recent wins via KO/TKO
- Limited UFC experience (3 fights)
- Lost UFC debut but showed resilience
Style Matchup Evaluation
Striking Dynamics:
- Walker’s 6″ reach advantage significant
- Both fighters favor striking but different approaches
- Walker more diverse with spinning/flying attacks
- Guskov shows traditional power punching
Key Factors:
- Walker’s significant reach advantage
- Both fighters’ finishing ability and KO power
- Walker’s experience advantage
- Both fighters’ defensive vulnerabilities
Path to Victory Analysis
Walker:
- Use reach advantage to control distance
- Employ unorthodox strikes from range
- Mix in takedown threats
- Avoid brawling exchanges
Guskov:
- Close distance aggressively
- Time counter shots during Walker’s attacks
- Target Walker’s chin
- Keep fight in boxing range
Prediction
Given the statistical advantages, experience level, and physical attributes, Johnny Walker should be considered the favorite. However, his recent knockout losses and defensive vulnerabilities make this a dangerous matchup against a power puncher.
Prediction: Johnny Walker via TKO, Round 2 Confidence: 65%
Rationale:
- Significant reach advantage will be key
- More diverse offensive arsenal
- Higher level of competition faced
- Both fighters vulnerable to KO but Walker’s range management should prevail
Risk Factors:
- Walker’s chin vulnerability
- Guskov’s recent KO power
- Walker’s occasional defensive lapses
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