UFC`s recent event in Kansas City saw a former title challenger conclude his fighting career.
In the co-main event, preceding the main fight, a veteran with 60 professional bouts emotionally ended his career.
Anthony Smith, competing in the Octagon for the 25th time, was stopped by Zhang Mingyang in his final fight at the T-Mobile Center, marking his retirement.
Returning to the UFC in 2016, ‘Lionheart’ surpassed expectations, becoming a consistent presence in the 205-pound division and even earning a shot at the light heavyweight title.
Following his third consecutive loss and the end of his career, some fellow fighters, including Conor McGregor, offered less-than-supportive comments about Smith.
Dillon Danis Calls for Revoking Anthony Smith`s `Lionheart` Nickname Post-Retirement Loss
While Anthony Smith never became a world champion in the UFC, his career trajectory, considering all factors, can be seen as a significant overachievement, marked by a commendable run.
‘Lionheart’ experienced numerous significant defeats throughout his career, with 12 losses coming by knockout, including his two most recent fights.
Previously, the former title challenger suffered dominant stoppage losses against opponents like Khalil Rountree and Glover Teixeira.
Reacting to Smith`s retirement, controversial figure Dillon Danis shared his views on the legacy of ‘Lionheart’ as his career concludes.
His final fight was not a fairy-tale ending; the 36-year-old was bloodied and defeated by Zhang Mingyang, a recent and impactful addition to the division.
Consequently, Danis argued that Smith no longer deserves the ‘Lionheart’ nickname, given how his final moments in the Octagon unfolded.
“Retired in a puddle of his own blood giving up like he does every fight I officially revoke the Lionheart nickname for Anthony Smith he literally has the heart of a poodle.”
Is Anthony Smith a Future UFC Hall of Famer?
Leading up to fight week, there was discussion regarding whether Anthony Smith merits induction into the UFC Hall of Fame following his retirement.
Aljamain Sterling previously offered his perspective on Smith`s legacy, which seemed quite reasonable.
It`s possible to have a celebrated and significant career without being a Hall of Famer. While ‘Lionheart’ had impressive longevity, he doesn`t have a single standout ‘classic fight’ that would guarantee entry via the fight wing.
Generally, aside from a few exceptions, it`s expected that former UFC champions will be the primary inductees into the Hall of Fame for the foreseeable future.
Rupert Hartwell