Back to the MMA Newsfeed

5 Defining Moments: Anthony Smith

Sign up for ESPN+ right here, and you can then stream the UFC live on your smart TV, computer, phone, tablet or streaming device via the ESPN app.

Anthony Smith ranks as one of MMA’s unlikeliest success stories.

“Lionheart” was 5-6 through his first 11 professional appearances, and while he found his footing as he traversed his 20s, he never looked like anything more than a reliable action fighter who would emerge from the regional circuit whenever he was called upon. Perceptions began to change when Smith joined the Ultimate Fighting Championship roster for a second time in 2016, and the decision to pack on muscle and put down roots in the light heavyweight division resulted in a drastic shift in his career trajectory.