Anthony Smith felt he finally achieved what he truly desired. His final fight, two weeks prior at UFC Kansas City against Zhang Mingyang, ended in a first-round TKO loss, concluding a 60-fight career where he once contended for the UFC light heavyweight title. Despite never securing the championship belt or many initial goals, “Lionheart” believes he gained the acknowledgment he sought at that event.
Smith reflected on his pursuit of the title, stating it felt like the only thing that mattered for years. Speaking on MMA Today with Din Thomas, he explained his deep desire for the belt stemmed from wanting global acknowledgment as the best fighter, even if just for a day, emphasizing it wasn`t about the money or the physical championship itself.
“I just wanted the entire world to not have any other option, but they had to acknowledge me,” Smith said.
In the weeks following, Smith realized the title wasn`t the core desire. He truly sought recognition for his journey and effort. Acknowledging he`ll likely never win a title or enter the Hall of Fame, he feels the experience on that Saturday night finally gave him what he`d been seeking. He concluded that the title was merely the perceived path, but he left the arena feeling content, having walked away with what felt like everything he truly desired.
Smith`s retirement was pre-planned. Following the fight, the UFC dedicated time to celebrating his career with a video package featuring former opponents` statements and highlights of his best performances.
Reflecting on the event, Smith stated the reaction from the Kansas City crowd and fellow fighters present brought him a sense of peace regarding his career.
He described the walk to the octagon as distinctly different, noting the incredible energy of the packed arena with everyone standing, from the floor to the rafters. The crowd`s reaction was significant, as was the moment when, after checking in and heading towards the octagon, he saw Dana White`s designated fighter section filled with peers standing and clapping. This, he said, provided acknowledgment from fellow fighters, indicating appreciation for his journey regardless of personal feelings.
Smith reiterated the importance of peer acknowledgment, adding that the UFC and ESPN video package, featuring figures he deeply respects like Din Thomas, Rashad Evans, Glover Teixeira, Laura Sanko, Jon Anik, and even musician Jelly Roll, solidified the recognition he`d been seeking. He concluded that, apart from the fight outcome itself, the night couldn`t have been any better.
Anthony Smith concluded his professional fighting career with an overall record of 38 wins and 22 losses, including a 13-12 record within the UFC.
