Anthony Smith Expected to Retire After UFC Fight Against Zhang Mingyang

Veteran UFC fighter Anthony Smith is set to make his final appearance in the Octagon against Zhang Mingyang at UFC Kansas City, marking the end of a lengthy and resilient MMA career. Smith, who has competed in nearly 60 professional fights and challenged for the UFC light heavyweight title, faces a tough opponent in Zhang, a rising Chinese fighter on an 11-fight win streak. While Smith has been praised for his toughness and the high level of competition he faced—including bouts against multiple champions—there is debate over whether his achievements are sufficient for UFC Hall of Fame induction. Smith enters the bout after a challenging period, including personal loss and recent defeats, but retains a notable advantage in submission skills. The fight is widely seen as a crossroads for both competitors, with Zhang favored to win but Smith still considered dangerous if he leverages his experience and grappling expertise. As Smith prepares for his likely retirement, his legacy as a durable and respected figure in the sport remains a topic of discussion.