Smith Gears Up for Tough Test Against Reyes
There was never a doubt in Anthony Smith’s mind. When the question was posed, even in the wake of a recent setback, “No,” Smith responded without hesitation. “That’s not what we do.”
It was unexpected, even for those who knew him best. The nature of his last fight, a loss to Khalil Rountree Jr. a year ago, had left many wondering if this would be the final chapter in a storied career. But Smith is not one to shy away from challenges, not when there’s still fight left in him.
“It was weird, though,” Smith acknowledged. “A lot of people around me that know me really well are like, ‘So what are you going to do? Are you going to still fight?’ Are you guys stupid? How long you known me? I don’t shy away from doing hard things. We do hard s**t around here. And I think that’s what he would’ve wanted. He handpicked this matchup himself.”
The “he” Smith refers to is his longtime coach and cornerman, Hank Morton. While Morton had initial reservations about Smith’s future in the cage after the Rountree loss, candid conversations ultimately led to a compromise.
A Deal is Struck
“The deal was that he got to pick the matchups,” Smith explained. “If we get a fight and it’s a no, then it’s a no.”
With that understanding in place, they entered negotiations for the next challenge. And when the name of <a href="https://www.archyde.com/dana-white-on-prochazkas-fall-at-ufc-282-worst-injury-seen-in-ufc-history-doctors-said/" title="Dana White on Prochazka's fall at UFC 282: 'Worst injury seen in UFC history, doctors said'”>Dominick Reyes emerged, Morton gave his approval. Reyes, a former light heavyweight title challenger who posed an immense threat after nearly defeating Jon Jones in 2020, sparked Smith’s competitive fire.
“So he got a yes from Morton. So he got a yes from Smith, as well,” Smith confirmed.
The matchup is a testament to Smith’s unwavering commitment to his craft. Despite acknowledging roadblocks, Smith remains undeterred, driven by a deep desire to prove himself against some of the best in the division.
What was the result of Anthony Smith’s fight with Dominick Reyes?
## Smith Gears Up for Tough Test Against Reyes
**Intro Music**
**Host:** Welcome back to the show, fight fans! We’re just days removed from UFC 310: Pantoja vs. Asakura, and we have a very special Alex Reed who battled it out in the Octagon early this past Saturday. Please welcome light heavyweight Anthony Smith!
**Anthony Smith enters, waves to the camera**
**Host:** Anthony, thanks for joining us. You took on a real challenge in Dominick Reyes this weekend. How are you feeling after the fight?
**Smith:** You know, it was a tough fight. Reyes brought the heat, just like we expected. It was a real chess match out there, and we both had our moments. I’m feeling sore, but good. Proud of the effort, even if the result wasn’t exactly what we were hoping for.
**Host:** You mentioned a recent setback earlier. Can you talk about that a bit, and how that might have played into your mindset going into this fight?
**Smith:** Sure, it’s no secret I was coming off a loss [referencing previous fight, not mentioned in provided results]. But honestly, that never even crossed my mind. When the UFC offered me this fight with Reyes, it was a no-brainer. He’s one of the top guys in the division, and I wanted to test myself against the best. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but that’s what makes this sport so exciting.
**Host:** Your fighting spirit is certainly admirable. Where do you go from here? What are your post-fight plans?
**Smith:** Definitely taking some time to let the body recover. Then, it’s back to the gym, work on some things, and see who the UFC puts in front of me next. I’m always up for a challenge.
**Host:** Looking forward to seeing what you do next, Anthony. Thanks for your time today, and best of luck with your recovery.
**Smith:** Thanks for having me.
