Anthony Smith addresses fans after MMA retirement at UFC Kansas City

"Lionheart" took to social media to react to his retirement defeat.

Jason Silva-Imagn Images

Anthony Smith suffered his third-straight loss Saturday night, which effectively ended his MMA career at the expense of Mingyang Zhang by first-round TKO.

Zhang Gets Major Props From "Lionheart"

Apr 26, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, UNITED STATES; Zhang Mingyang (blue gloves) reacts after defeating Anthony Smith (not pictured) during UFC Fight Night at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images | William Purnell-Imagn Images

Smith gave a heartfelt post-fight speech alongside a UFC-produced tribute video, but later reflected upon posting to social media with an extended post thanking his fanbase for the memories, good or bad.

READ MORE: Ian Machado Garry survives late rally to win UFC Kansas City main event

Anthony Smith Reflects On KO Loss

"That’s a wrap! Congrats to [Zhang]," Smith wrote. "The LHW division is on notice. You’re gonna have a great career. "Thank you to all the people who have supported me all these years. I was never good enough to make it this far…I’m just really happy that it all happened. Thank you to the [UFC] for saving my life."

Apr 26, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, UNITED STATES; Zhang Mingyang (blue gloves) prepares to fight Anthony Smith (not pictured) during UFC Fight Night at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images | William Purnell-Imagn Images

UFC CEO Dana White was gracious toward Smith when asked about his career at the UFC Kansas City post-fight presser, revealing he was happy for the Nebraska native to continue his post-fighting career as a desk analyst for the promotion.

Smith had an up-and-down UFC run over the course of 12 years separated by two stints. However, his career highlight was winning 14 of 16 fights, which included a three-fight winning streak before losing to Jon Jones at UFC 235 in March 2019.

Smith finished with a mixed bag of wins and losses in the promotion. A 13-12 record culminated with six KO/TKO victories and five submission wins, defeating some of the best the division had to offer at the time.

READ MORE: Dana White confirms Ian Machado Garry’s UFC 315 claim after Kansas City win

Smith's final MMA win came last May against Vitor Petrino in upset fashion at UFC 301, securing a first-round guillotine choke.

More MMA Knockout News

• Dustin Poirier announces third Max Holloway bout for retirement fight at UFC 318
• Rose Namajunas draws shock opponent for UFC return
• Kamaru Usman sends message to UFC rivals after comeback announcement
• Eddie Hearn gives blunt reaction to Eubank Jr. weight miss controversy

Stick with MMAKnockout for more FREE coverage of the UFC, MMA, Boxing.

Follow MMAKnockout on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.