BREAKING: Anthony Smith vs. Johnny Walker booked, date revealed

Anthony Smith is set to face Johnny Walker in a five-round light heavyweight headlining bout at an upcoming UFC event on May 13.

MMA Ideas initially reported that while verbal agreements are in place between the athletes, the location and venue for the fight are yet to be announced. Several media outlets have since confirmed the booking.

The former light heavyweight title challenger will be looking to bounce back after suffering a TKO loss against Magomed Ankalaev last year. Smith was initially scheduled to face reigning light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill in March, but that matchup fell through after 'Sweet Dreams' was given the title shot against Glover Teixeira at UFC 283.

Johnny Walker recently fought at UFC 283, where he secured an impressive first-round knockout win over Paul Craig. The 30-year-old Brazilian will aim to build on a two-fight win streak after beating 'Bearjew', and Ion Cutelaba. Walker is 3-2 in his last five fights, and the No.7-ranked light heavyweight could insert himself into the title mix with a win over Smith.

Anthony Smith is also 3-2 in his last five outings. 'Lionheart' was on a three-fight win streak before he suffered a significant leg injury against Ankalaev at UFC 277. The 34-year-old American currently occupies the No.5 spot in the division's rankings, and a win against Walker would certainly help his case for a potential title shot.

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Jamahal Hill wants Anthony Smith to be the first one to challenge him for the title

Jamahal Hill was originally scheduled to face Anthony Smith at UFC Vegas 71 next month but was later re-scheduled to fight for the vacant light heavyweight title against Glover Teixeira. Hill and Smith even trained together to prepare the now-champion for the biggest outing of his career.

Interestingly, 'Lionheart' was named the backup fighter for the UFC 283 headliner, for which he missed weight. However, 'Sweet Dreams' wants the promotion to forget that and give Smith the next shot at the title even if it's against him.

In an interview with MMA Junkie, Hill pled Smith's case, stating:

"Nothing would be happier for my brother to get a chance at gold, even if it is against me. He’s been around for a long time. He’s been working. He had the hiccup where he broke his ankle, something that was out of his control. Aside from that, he’s been killing it. He put away like three straight contenders, up-and-coming guys, hungry guys.”

Watch the full interview below: