Anthony Smith, after losing his retirement fight to Zhang Mingyang at UFC Kansas City, became visibly upset with a fan in a Nebraska shirt who was taunting him, leading to an emotional outburst despite his efforts to embrace the end of his nearly 20-year fighting career.
Anthony Smith retired after losing to Zhang Mingyang at UFC Kansas City. Yet, it seemed he was ready for one more bout afterward.
During the fight, Smith had a nasty cut on his head, spilling blood everywhere. He was visibly angry, flipping double middle fingers at someone cageside. He kept flipping off the person and eventually went to the cage, shouting.
In the post-fight show, Smith explained his agitation. He was ready to delay his retirement for a few more punches.
“There was a guy in a Nebraska shirt booing me and flipping me off before the fight,” Smith said. “Afterward, his friend cheered while he kept being disrespectful.”
Smith was furious. “He was wearing a Nebraska shirt! We’re supposed to be family here. It’s a small community!”
Living in Omaha, Neb., Smith felt betrayed by a fellow Nebraskan. The loss in his retirement fight only fueled his anger.
Zhang tried to calm Smith when he seemed ready to leap over the fence. “Mingyang was like, ‘Don’t do this brother,’” Smith recalled. “I was emotional. The fight didn’t go my way. That’s part of the game.”
Smith couldn’t believe the audacity. “I pour my heart into this game. If you’re in the crowd, you’re not doing what I’m doing, especially wearing a Nebraska shirt.”
Reflecting on his career, Smith struggled to accept retirement. He hadn’t imagined life without fighting for nearly 20 years.
“It’s weird,” Smith admitted. “I’m used to moving on, win or lose. Now, there’s nothing else.”
He refused to be sad about retiring. “I’ve been doing this since I was 17. I’m almost 37. It’s been a long journey.”
Smith focused on gratitude. “I built my life around this sport. It gave me opportunities I never had. I’m happy it happened, not sad it’s over.”