Winner: Kennedy Nzechukwu
Confidence Score: 68Kennedy Nzechukwu has a significant advantage in both experience and physical attributes. He has a 5-inch reach advantage (83" vs 78.5"), which is historically a key factor for success in striking-heavy heavyweight matchups. His takedown defense (81%) is elite for the division, and his striking defense (51%) is notably better than Walker's (43%). Nzechukwu has also faced a higher level of UFC competition and has more KO finishes (10) compared to Walker's 6. While Walker has shown dangerous submission skills and high takedown accuracy, his takedown defense is 0%, which could be exploited by Nzechukwu's wrestling background. Additionally, Nzechukwu's durability and experience against top competition give him the edge in a fight that could see both men tested in all areas. The main risk is Walker's fast starts and finishing ability, but the data favors Nzechukwu's ability to weather early storms and take over late, especially against less-experienced UFC heavyweights.
Live odds
Live and historic odds as well as more fighter statistics and insights for Kennedy Nzechukwu vs Valter Walker can be found on the fighter matchup page. All the fighter matchups and live odds for Lewis vs Teixeira can be found on the Lewis vs Teixeira event page.