Dominick Reyes defeats Johnny Walker by split decision

Dominick Reyes picked up a split decision win over Johnny Walker on April 12, 2026, in a light heavyweight contest that drew a mixed response from fans and observers who felt the outcome was far from clear-cut.

Reyes, now 16-5-0, moves to 4-1 in his last five fights after the victory, rebounding from a recent defeat to Carlos Ulberg. Ranked eighth in the light heavyweight division, the 36-year-old American southpaw out of Teixeira MMA and Fitness brings considerable offensive output to the cage, averaging 5.39 significant strikes landed per minute at a 54 percent accuracy rate. Known as "The Devastator," the six-foot-four Reyes carries a 77-inch reach and has long been regarded as one of the division's more dangerous strikers.

Walker, representing SBG Ireland, falls to 22-10-0 with his third loss in his last four outings. The 34-year-old Brazilian stands six-foot-six with an 82-inch reach — giving him a notable physical edge over most opponents — and lands significant strikes at a rate of 4.06 per minute with a 55 percent accuracy mark. Now ranked 11th at light heavyweight, Walker will need to find his footing quickly to avoid slipping further down the divisional ladder.

Why it matters

• The split decision nature of the result has drawn scrutiny, with some observers believing Walker did enough to earn the win.
• Reyes at No. 8 strengthens his position in a competitive light heavyweight division, while Walker at No. 11 faces pressure following consecutive struggles.
• The stylistic matchup featured two long, striking-oriented fighters, yet the fight reportedly failed to deliver the action fans anticipated.
• Both men remain active in a division where a single result can significantly shift ranking trajectories.