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Anthony Smith says ‘the outpouring of hatred has been incredible’ ahead of Jon Jones fight

It’s no secret that Anthony Smith will be a big underdog at UFC 235.

Smith is currently listed as more than an eight-to-one underdog on some sportsbooks ahead of his March 2 challenge against UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones. Considering that Jones is one of the most talented fighters in the history of the sport, the long odds aren’t a shock to Smith, nor are the omnipresent questions about what it’s like to have the whole fight world doubting his chances. Smith welcomes and expected those.

But there is still one aspect about the lead-up to UFC 235 that has surprised the 30-year-old MMA veteran — and it’s something he looks forward to outshining once all is said and done.