Veteran mixed martial artist Anthony Smith`s final walk to the octagon proved to be an unfortunate and difficult one. In the co-main event at UFC Kansas City, Smith sustained a severe cut early in the fight before rising contender Zhang Mingyang secured the victory via strikes.
It was widely known before Saturday night`s event that Smith intended to retire following this fight, regardless of the result. Despite finding some initial success with his own elbow strikes, the fight took a decisive turn when Zhang opened a deep gash on the top of Smith`s head.
With blood streaming into his eyes and impairing his vision, Smith`s ability to defend himself was significantly compromised. After an unsuccessful attempt to take the fight to the ground, Zhang unleashed a barrage of elbows, prompting referee Jason Herzog to halt the bout. The official stoppage occurred at 4:03 of the opening round.
Following the fight, an emotional Anthony Smith addressed the Kansas City crowd, offering praise to his opponent for his performance.
“I felt okay at first, but as soon as I got clipped with that elbow, the blood was just pouring into my eyes,” Smith explained. “He`s really effective in the clinch. Honestly, five years ago, that`s a guy I could handle. But I`m getting older, it is what it is. Father Time caught up tonight. He`s a fantastic fighter with a lot of potential, and I`m excited to see how far he goes in his career.”
While the outcome wasn`t what he hoped for, Smith took the time to absorb the moment of his retirement, receiving a standing ovation and warm tribute from the appreciative crowd. The UFC also aired a video package highlighting key moments from Smith`s extensive career, which spanned over 17 years and included 50 professional fights.
“When I began my journey in this sport, I was homeless and had nothing,” Smith shared with the fans. “This platform has given me the opportunity to provide for my family, my four wonderful daughters, and offer them a life I never could have had otherwise. From the absolute bottom of my heart, thank you all immensely.”
He continued, visibly moved, “I`m truly speechless. Watching that tribute… I actually did that! I achieved it. I`m going to take Chael Sonnen`s advice and just be thankful that it all happened. I really appreciate every single one of you. We can be sad about the loss next week, but tonight, I`m focusing on gratitude.”
Despite the focus on Smith`s retirement, the victory was a significant one for Zhang Mingyang. This win marks his biggest career moment to date and improves his perfect UFC record to 3-0, with all three victories ending in the first round.
Finishing a respected veteran like Smith puts Zhang in a prime position for higher-ranked opponents and solidifies his status as a rising force in the light heavyweight division.
Zhang confidently addressed the audience after his dominant performance, proclaiming, “Boo me again, let me hear it! I know maybe you didn`t know who I was before tonight, but if you didn`t know, now you certainly know!”
