Anthony Smith’s retirement fight did not go as planned, as he suffered a brutal stoppage loss to Zhang Mingyang at UFC Kansas City. The defeat marked Smith’s third consecutive loss, ending his career on a disappointing note.
Despite the loss, Smith expressed gratitude towards his fans and the platform that allowed him to provide for his family. He acknowledged his age and the impact it had on his performance, accepting that “father time wins tonight.”
Smith, who debuted in the UFC in 2013, had a successful run in the octagon, earning victories over notable opponents such as Mauricio Rua and Rashad Evans. He also challenged for the light heavyweight title against Jon Jones, showing resilience and sportsmanship in defeat.
The 36-year-old fighter reflected on his journey in MMA, recognizing the challenges he had overcome and the accomplishments he had achieved. Despite not winning a world title, Smith expressed pride in his career and the effort he had put in.
Ultimately, Smith leaves the sport with a record of 13-12 in the UFC, a testament to his dedication and perseverance. While his retirement may not have been the fairytale ending he hoped for, Smith remains grateful for the opportunities he had and the experiences he gained in his MMA career.
For more details on the UFC Kansas City event and the main event between Ian Machado Garry and Carlos Prates, visit Uncrowned’s event hub.