Following his second consecutive loss at UFC 310 final month, Anthony Smith steered that it could be the ultimate time that he steps contained in the Octagon. “Lionheart” was extremely emotional in that second however the resolution to place a full cease on his profession is one thing that followers have anticipated for a while with Dana White even saying after the occasion that he hoped it might be the top of the road.
It was clear from his stroll out in Las Vegas on December 7 that the previous mild heavyweight title challenger wasn’t in the fitting way of thinking to be competing following the lack of a really shut buddy and former cornerman. He was stopped by Dominick Reyes within the second spherical however after having a while to mirror on the battle, he not too long ago introduced on The Ariel Helwani Present that he has a battle scheduled for April that may enable him to exit on his personal phrases.
“Yeah, it’s yet one more. Win, lose, or draw, that’s going to be it.”
Throughout the identical interview, Smith additionally mentioned that he had inquired about the potential for competing in a unique enviornment as soon as he lays the gloves down. Relatively than swapping them for boxing gloves like a number of high-profile names have in current instances, the 36-year previous was fascinating in abandoning them for good by entering into Energy Slap.
Smith mentioned that after posing the query to the UFC’s Chief Enterprise Officer Hunter Campbell, his request was denied. Contemplating that he he may have 59 professional MMA bouts underneath his belt by the top of April, this may very well be to cease different fighters who’re on the finish of their careers from taking extra harm.
“Dude, I attempted. They advised me no, straight up. I requested Hunter, he advised me no. He wouldn’t even deliver it to Dana.”
Combat followers reacted on social media to Smith’s assertion with numerous messages from individuals who need the very best for him.
“I sincerely hope he’s okay. I used to be nervous about him after his final battle.”
“Nobody desires to see that :(“
“no plz… he acquired children and household”
“Glad the UFC is looking for him as a result of doing Energy Slap can be horrible for him. He already has his subsequent job within the media secured.”
“On and off paper, that is for the very best”
“I hope he has good folks round him. He appears extraordinarily troubled.”
