Anthony Smith’s legendary MMA journey came to a brutal and emotional close on Saturday night as he suffered a first-round TKO loss to Zhang Mingyang in the UFC Kansas City co-main event.
A devastating cut early in the fight hampered Smith’s vision, ultimately leading to a stoppage that marked the end of his 17-year MMA career.
Anthony Smith Battles Through Early Setback Before Emotional Goodbye
Heading into UFC Kansas City, Anthony Smith had made it clear he intended to retire, win or lose. For a brief moment, it seemed he might have one last highlight as he found some early success with sharp elbow strikes.
However, Mingyang responded with an elbow that split Smith open at the top of his head, altering the course of the fight.
Blood pouring into his eyes, Smith struggled to defend himself, and a desperate takedown attempt was stuffed. Sensing his opportunity, Mingyang unleashed a flurry of elbows, forcing referee Jason Herzog to step in at 4:03 of the first round.
Afterward, a visibly emotional Smith praised Mingyang’s performance and accepted that time had caught up with him.
“Father Time wins tonight,” Smith said during his post-fight interview. “He’s got a high ceiling. He’s going to be fantastic, and I look forward to seeing his career grow.”
Despite the bitter ending, the Kansas City crowd erupted in appreciation as the UFC played a touching tribute video, highlighting Smith’s career, which spanned over 50 professional fights.
“When I started this game, I was homeless,” Smith told the fans. “Now this platform has allowed me to raise my family, my four beautiful daughters, and give them a life I’d never been able to have. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much.”
Reflecting on his journey, Smith added, “Watching that video, I did that sh*t. I’m going to take some advice from Chael (Sonnen) and just be grateful it happened. We can be sad next week, but tonight I’m going to have some gratitude.”
Many fighters and UFC personalities, who have witnessed Smith’s career from up close, sent heartfelt messages in the official UFC video montage.
Following the fight, tributes poured in from across the MMA community.
Veteran journalist Ariel Helwani posted, “No fairy tale ending for Anthony Smith. It rarely is in the fight game. Zhang Mingyang with another vicious first-round win. Ref Jason Herzog probably let that go on a few shots too many out of respect for Smith. He’s up on his feet now.”
Former UFC lightweight champion Rafael Dos Anjos honored Smith’s legacy by writing, “Anthony Smith has fought all the killers in his career! Guy is a beast. Happy retirement.”
MMA reporter Adam Martin added, “Zhang Mingyang ends Anthony Smith’s career with a first-round TKO. Just a brutal, vicious beating to end his career.”
I’m never tellin the ufc im retiring. I dont want a retirement fight no way
— Terrance McKinney (@twrecks155) April 27, 2025
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.
— Dillon Danis (@dillondanis) April 27, 2025
Best sport on the planet, but it simply does not offer storybook endings on the way out. Still, that man will always have my respect!!! 🫡#UFCKansasCity
— John Morgan (@JohnMorgan_MMA) April 27, 2025
Smith leaves the octagon with a professional record of 38-22 (13-11 in the UFC), having faced some of the sport’s toughest names, including Jon Jones, Glover Teixeira, and Alexander Gustafsson.