As Anthony Smith gets ready for his retirement fight at UFC Kansas City, he`s already planning for his post-fighting career as a UFC analyst and podcast host.
However, just a few years ago, Smith was unsure about his future after his MMA career ended. He knew fighting couldn`t last forever, and the uncertainty worried him.
“It used to bother me,” Smith admitted. “I didn`t know what I`d do when I was done. It wasn`t just about money, but about finding purpose and making a difference. I`ve always been different, not suited for a typical 9-to-5 job. I respect those who work regular jobs, as I did construction while training and fighting, even finishing concrete while in the UFC.
“I respect that work, but it wasn`t for me long-term. I saw it as temporary until I found my real path. But then I wondered, what happens when fighting is over? That thought really troubled me and kept me awake at night.”
A turning point came when Dan Hardy invited Smith onto his Sirius XM show. Talking about MMA on air opened up a new career possibility. The 36-year-old veteran had never considered broadcasting, but these guest appearances got him noticed as an analyst, and the UFC took notice.
This led to an offer to work on UFC pre- and post-fight shows when UFC partnered with FOX. Smith was nervous at first, but Michael Bisping, a future UFC Hall of Famer, helped him.
“Michael Bisping really helped me out in that role,” Smith explained. “He gave me a quick lesson on broadcasting at FOX. He made me feel comfortable and guided me on my first show, really supporting me. He carried me in many situations and truly saved me.”
Smith later co-hosted the Believe You Me podcast with Bisping, but their partnership recently ended, leading to rumors of a falling out.
Smith clarified that he always planned to create his own path, which included starting his own podcast and leaving his co-hosting role with Bisping. Despite speculation of drama, Smith insists he has deep respect and gratitude for Bisping, believing the feeling is mutual.
“We are good,” Smith said about his relationship with Bisping. “If Bisping disliked me, everyone would know it, he’s never held back his words. There are background things we haven’t discussed publicly, but nothing negative or conflict-related. Bisping and I are on good terms.
“Creating my own show was always part of our discussions from the start. It wasn`t a surprise to anyone that I started my own show. He’s incredible, a great guy, and helped me immensely.”
Looking ahead, Smith remains a top UFC analyst and is excited for new challenges as his fighting career nears its end.
Becoming a UFC commentator is high on his list, as he’s always wanted to be a color commentator. However, he knows these positions are limited.
Smith also admits he doesn`t want to gain a commentary job at the expense of someone else losing theirs. This is why he doesn`t actively campaign for the role, though the UFC knows he wants it.
“I would jump at the chance to call fights, as my skills might be better suited for that,” Smith stated. “But asking for that opportunity could mean someone else loses theirs. So, I`ll wait patiently. The UFC knows I’m willing and would enjoy it. I admire Michael Chiesa and Alan Jouban, but I feel uneasy when they publicly seek commentary roles because it could impact their peers. I want to call fights too, it would be amazing and fun.
“But publicly campaigning for it, I don`t want Daniel Cormier, Paul Felder, or Bisping to feel uncomfortable or think I`m trying to take their positions.”
The upcoming UFC broadcast rights deal in 2026 is likely to bring more content and opportunities. With the UFC already hosting over 40 events annually, this number could increase.
This is why Smith is willing to be patient, confident that the UFC will eventually offer him a commentary role without displacing anyone else.
“Opportunities arise,” Smith said. “Over the past decade, Brian Stann, Dan Hardy, and others have rotated in and out. As the sport grows, there will be more roles and chances. We`re heading towards more fights, not fewer. Eventually, they’ll need another commentator. With new ESPN negotiations and rights deals, I expect more fights and opportunities, requiring more personnel.
“Eventually, Bisping, Felder, Laura Sanko, D.C., and Dominick Cruz will need breaks, and if they need someone to step in, I’ll be ready.”
