Anthony Smith Closes the Book on His MMA Career
Anthony “Lionheart” Smith is set to make his final walk to the octagon this Saturday, at UFC Kansas City, closing out a professional MMA career that spans 60 fights. The longtime Light Heavyweight contender will face rising Chinese star Zhang Minyang in the co-main event at the T-Mobile Center. After nearly two decades in the sport, Smith has made it clear that this will be his last fight. A decision made partly due to father time catching up to him - he’s 2-5 in his last seven - but also after his longtime coach and friend passed away in November of 2024. Win or lose, this weekend marks the final chapter for one of the UFC’s most battle-tested veterans.
Smith’s retirement comes after a recent string of tough matchups, including losses to Roman Doldize and Dominick Reyes. While the results haven’t gone his way lately, Smith remains focused and motivated heading into his farewell appearance. In the lead-up to the bout, he’s spoken openly about his readiness to walk away, expressing gratitude for the journey and excitement for what comes next. He also acknowledged the challenge ahead in Zhang, a powerful striker who’s picked up two First-Round finishes in the UFC and is eager to make a name for himself against the veteran. For Smith, the fight is as much about legacy as it is about closure.
As fans prepare to watch Smith make his final walk, many reflect on his contributions to the sport. He came into the UFC hot, recording a record of 7-2 before his Light Heavyweight title fight with Jon Jones, where he would have a chance to win the belt by disqualification after Jones illegally kneed Smith. However, living up to the name Lionheart, Smith continued to fight rather than win by disqualification. Smith has long been praised for his willingness to fight anyone, anytime, and for his unique statements as an analyst and podcast host outside of the cage. With a smooth transition into the media already underway, it’s clear Smith’s voice will continue to play a role in MMA. While Saturday may mark the end of his fighting days, it’s also the beginning of a new chapter.
