Anthony Smith Announces Retirement After UFC Kansas City Loss

After a distinguished 15-fight UFC career, Anthony "Lionheart" Smith has announced his retirement from mixed martial arts. The veteran light heavyweight's decision came following his third consecutive loss at UFC Kansas City on April 26, 2025, where he faced Zhang Mingyang. This emotional decision marks the end of a journey that has seen Smith face some of the best fighters in the world, earning respect for both his skill and resilience inside the Octagon.

The Final Fight

Smith’s retirement was confirmed in a symbolic moment in the Octagon. After suffering a first-round TKO loss to Zhang Mingyang, Smith left his gloves in the center of the Octagon—a traditional gesture signaling the end of a fighter’s career. The fight itself was emotionally charged, especially for Smith, who had been grappling with personal loss. Just weeks before his fight, he lost his longtime coach, Scott Morton, a blow that weighed heavily on him as he stepped into the cage.

The fight was brief, with Smith sustaining a significant cut from an elbow strike early in the round, leading to a referee stoppage. While the physical damage was clear, it was the emotional toll of the moment that left a lasting impact. In the aftermath, Smith's frustration boiled over when a fan in the crowd disrespected him. The veteran fighter responded with a flip-off, later explaining that the fan’s comments had pushed him to his breaking point.

A Legacy of Resilience

While Smith’s UFC career never included a championship, his legacy is one built on resilience and determination. Over the course of his time in the UFC, he faced tough competition, including a title fight against Jon Jones at UFC 235. Smith’s willingness to fight the best, even in the face of adversity, earned him a place as one of the most respected figures in the division.

Notable victories, such as his wins over Alexander Gustafsson and Volkan Oezdemir, showcased his striking and ground game, as well as his ability to thrive in high-stakes moments. Despite never clinching a UFC title, Smith’s character outside of the Octagon solidified his status as a fan favorite. His humility and sportsmanship became part of what made him beloved among fans and respected by his peers.

The Decision to Retire

For Smith, stepping away from the sport was not an easy decision. He had been a staple in the UFC’s light heavyweight division for years, enduring both the highs and lows that come with competing at the highest level. But after three consecutive losses, including his emotional farewell fight in Kansas City, Smith knew it was time to move on to the next chapter of his life.

In his post-fight interview, Smith shared that the recent loss of his coach weighed heavily on him, and the combination of personal grief and the competitive nature of MMA led him to the decision to retire. His emotional farewell was a reminder of the human side of fighters—often overshadowed by the spotlight and the physical toll the sport demands.

Looking Ahead

Though his fighting career has ended, Smith’s journey is far from over. The 35-year-old has already made an impact as an analyst and commentator, sharing his insight on UFC events and breaking down fights with precision and understanding. His future may lie in these new roles, where his wealth of experience can continue to educate and entertain fans.

While Smith’s retirement marks the end of an era in the UFC light heavyweight division, it also opens the door for the next generation of fighters to make their mark. Anthony "Lionheart" Smith leaves a legacy of heart, determination, and professionalism that will be remembered for years to come.

A Final Farewell

As Smith hangs up his gloves, the MMA world will remember him as a fighter who never shied away from a challenge, both inside the cage and outside it. He may not have won a UFC title, but he earned something just as important: the respect of his peers and the love of the fans. Anthony Smith's retirement is not the end, but the beginning of a new journey, and we at FIGHT.TV wish him all the best as he moves on to his next chapter.

Thank you, Lionheart. You’ve left an indelible mark on the sport.

Anthony Smith