Anthony Smith thinks he can still become UFC champion, which is why he hasn’t stopped fighting.
The veteran returns to the octagon this Saturday in the co-main event of UFC Fight Night 225 in Singapore. Smith (36-18 MMA, 11-8 UFC) looks to snap a two-fight skid and re-insert himself into the title picture with a win in this upcoming rematch against Ryan Spann (21-8 MMA, 7-3 UFC).
“The whole reason I’m still here and still in this journey is the title,” Smith said at UFC Fight Night 225 media day. “The second that I think that I can’t win it or that it’s too far out of reach, then I’ll be done doing this.”
Now 35, and despite already having a chance at the title in 2019, Smith sees himself competitive with the top of the division.
The last time Smith fought Span in September 2021, Smith won the fight by submission. The victory over Spann stands as his most recent win after losses to Magomed Ankalaev and Johnny Walker.
Smith believes he’s got what it takes to beat the world’s best, but he’s just been unable to perform at his best consistently.
“I’ve been a bit inconsistent,” Smith said. “I think at times I show up, and it’s clear I can beat anyone in the world, and sometimes I show up and sh*t the bed. So I’ve just really been working on my consistency. I think that’s what it comes down to: my focus and just trying to bring the best product every time. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve had to adjust some of my training and approaches and recovery stuff. It’s just a learning process.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 225.
