UFC 303 loss ‘put nail within the coffin’ on getting title

Anthony Smith finds himself in a quandary after UFC 303.

Smith (38-20 MMA, 13-10 UFC) misplaced a unanimous resolution to short-notice alternative Roman Dolidze (13-3 MMA, 7-3 UFC) lower than two weeks in the past at T-Cellular Area in Las Vegas. “Lionheart” initially stepped in on quick discover to exchange Jamahal Hill towards Carlos Ulberg, however Ulberg wound up withdrawing. In stepped Dolidze, who defeated Smith.

“There was virtually a second the place I used to be type of like, ‘What the f*ck am I doing right here?’” Smith stated on his “Imagine You Me” podcast. “Not a lot me, however why am I even on this place proper now? I got here right here to fill in for Jamahal in a matchup that I actually preferred and that I used to be very conversant in due to coaching with Jamahal and serving to him out.

“So, it didn’t really feel new, however then abruptly it’s Dolidze, who I bought numerous respect for. I’ve been very excessive on Dolidze for a very long time. It’s a stylistic nightmare for me. It’s shorter, stocky grappler with good placing. These guys have all the time been my kryptonite, these double-threat guys.”

Smith has by no means backed down from a problem in his quest to regain one other mild heavyweight title shot. However after alternating wins and losses up to now couple of years, he thinks that window has seemingly closed.

“Profession trajectory-wise, I don’t know. Which may’ve put the nail within the coffin on getting a title,” Smith stated.

Smith vows to not take short-notice fights. He doesn’t plan on retiring however isn’t positive learn how to proceed if the title is not in play.

“I really like combating,” Smith stated. “The issue I’m working into mentally is that if I’m not doing it to win a title, am I costing myself greater than it’s value? That’s the crossroads that I’m at. It’s time away from my household, and that’s getting tougher and tougher.”