Anthony Smith, after a 60-fight career, found fulfillment in receiving acknowledgment and respect from peers and fans at UFC Kansas City, rather than winning a title.
Anthony Smith finally got what he wanted. Two weeks ago, he stepped into the octagon for the last time. Facing Zhang Mingyang in the co-main event of UFC Kansas City, Smith lost by first-round TKO. This marked the end of a 60-fight career, during which he challenged for the UFC light heavyweight title. Despite never winning the belt, Smith found what he truly sought: acknowledgment.
“I spent all those years chasing the title,” Smith shared on MMA Today with Din Thomas. “It was the only thing that mattered. But remember why I wanted it so badly? For just one day, I wanted the world to see me as the best. It wasn’t about the money or the gold. I just wanted recognition.”
Over the past few weeks, Smith realized it was never really about the title. “I wanted my journey and effort acknowledged. I’ll never win a title or be in the Hall of Fame. But that Saturday night, I got what I was looking for. I just wanted acknowledgment.”
He admitted, “The title was just a vehicle I was chasing. I thought it was what I wanted, but I left content. I had to be happy with what I got, and I walked out with everything I’d ever wanted.”
Smith’s retirement was planned. After the fight, the UFC celebrated his career with a video package featuring statements from former opponents and highlights of his best moments. Reflecting on that night, Smith felt at peace with his career.
“When I made the walk, it was different,” Smith recalled. “The arena was insane. Everyone was on their feet. The crowd’s reaction was overwhelming.”
One moment stood out. “At the check-in station, I got the vaseline, turned around, and saw Dana’s fighter section. Everyone was standing, clapping. My peers acknowledged me. Even if they didn’t like me, they appreciated the journey.”
The UFC and ESPN’s video package, featuring Jelly Roll, Din Thomas, Rashad Evans, Glover Teixeira, and others Smith respects, meant everything. “That was the acknowledgment I was looking for. Other than a win, it couldn’t have been better.”
Smith ended his career with a record of 38-22 and a UFC record of 13-12.