Overview

• Anthony Smith officially retired from mixed martial arts after a first-round TKO loss to Zhang Mingyang at UFC on ESPN 66 in Kansas City.
• In an emotional post-fight speech, Smith thanked fans, UFC executives, and the Midwest community for their support throughout his career.
• On Instagram, Smith expressed gratitude for his journey, acknowledging he 'never expected to make it this far' and credited the UFC with 'saving his life.'
• Fellow fighters like Chris Weidman and Israel Adesanya praised Smith's career, while Conor McGregor mocked him with a laughing emoji on social media.
• Speculation has begun about Smith transitioning to a role in UFC broadcasting, though no official plans have been announced.