Zhang Mingyang’s Brutal Victory Forces Anthony Smith into Retirement at UFC Kansas City

Last night, the MMA world witnessed what might be one of the most definitive career-ending moments in recent UFC history. Chinese powerhouse Zhang Mingyang literally fought Anthony “Lionheart” Smith into retirement with a vicious performance that left the veteran bloody, battered, and ultimately ready to hang up his gloves for good.

The brutal showdown went down at UFC Kansas City on Saturday, April 26, 2025, inside the T-Mobile Center, broadcast live to fans on ESPN2 and ESPN+. What many expected to be a competitive light heavyweight clash turned into a one-sided demolition that will likely be remembered as both Zhang’s coming-out party and Smith’s curtain call.

The Fight That Ended a Career

From the opening bell, Zhang’s intent was clear. The Chinese prospect, who entered the octagon with considerable hype behind him, unleashed a barrage of striking combinations that repeatedly found their mark on Smith’s face. By the middle of the second round, “Lionheart” was living up to his nickname in the worst possible way – showing heart by absorbing punishment that would have felled lesser fighters.

I’ve covered countless UFC events, but watching Smith’s face progressively transform into a crimson mask was genuinely difficult. The veteran’s legendary durability ultimately worked against him, as it allowed Zhang to deliver more damage than anyone should endure in a single night.

Zhang Mingyang: China’s Next UFC Star?

This wasn’t just a win for Zhang – it was a statement. At just 27 years old, the Chinese fighter improved his professional record to an impressive 18-6 and positioned himself as a serious threat in the 205-pound division.

“I knew I could do this,” Zhang stated through his interpreter during the post-fight interview. “Smith is a legend, but this is my time now. I want to fight for the top rankings.”

His performance featured everything matchmakers love to see: technical precision, raw power, and the killer instinct to finish opponents. With China hungry for a male UFC champion to follow in the footsteps of Zhang Weili, Mingyang suddenly looks like their best hope.

Anthony Smith’s Emotional Retirement

For Smith (38-20), the defeat marks the end of a remarkable 15-year professional career that saw him challenge for UFC gold and establish himself as one of the division’s most respected veterans.

“I’ve been doing this a long time,” a visibly emotional Smith said during his post-fight interview, blood still trickling from multiple cuts. “I can’t keep taking nights like this. My family deserves better. I’m done.”

At 36 years old, Smith leaves behind an impressive UFC resume that includes wins over former champions like Rashad Evans and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, along with a title challenge against Jon Jones. More importantly, he departs with the respect of fans and fellow fighters alike for his never-say-die attitude and professionalism.

What’s Next for Both Fighters?

While Smith heads toward a likely analyst role (where he’s already excelled part-time), Zhang’s path forward looks increasingly bright. The UFC’s expansion into China makes him an obvious candidate for headline spots in upcoming Asian cards.

Potential matchups for Zhang could include:

Potential Opponent	Current Ranking	Matchup Appeal
Jamahal Hill	#5	Striking showcase
Volkan Oezdemir	#8	Test against veteran
Ryan Spann	#11	Battle of rising contenders

The Changing Light Heavyweight Landscape

Smith’s retirement marks another departure of the old guard at 205 pounds. With Jon Jones focused on heavyweight and other veterans like Glover Teixeira retired, the division continues its generational shift.

Zhang joins a crop of emerging talents like Magomed Ankalaev, Aleksandar Rakić, and current champion Alex Pereira who are reshaping what was once the UFC’s flagship division. His performance against Smith suggests he has the tools to compete with this new breed of light heavyweight.

Fan Reactions

Social media exploded during and after the fight, with many fans expressing both admiration for Smith’s career and excitement about Zhang’s potential:

“Watching Smith retire like that was heartbreaking, but man, Zhang looks like the real deal. #UFCKansasCity” – @MMAFanatic

“Smith gave everything to this sport. Nothing but respect for Lionheart. #Legend” – @UFCDiehard

Looking Back at Smith’s Career

Before we fully turn the page, it’s worth acknowledging Smith’s incredible journey. Starting as a regional fighter who struggled to find consistency, he transformed into a UFC main event staple through sheer determination and continual improvement.

His willingness to fight anyone, anytime (including famously continuing against Jones after absorbing an illegal knee) earned him the respect of the entire MMA community. Few fighters embody the warrior spirit quite like Anthony Smith, and the sport will miss his presence in the octagon.

The Bottom Line

Sometimes in combat sports, we witness more than just a victory or defeat – we see a torch being passed. Last night in Kansas City, as Zhang Mingyang’s hand was raised over a bloodied Anthony Smith, we watched exactly that kind of moment unfold.

For Smith, it’s the end of a journey that took him from obscurity to UFC title contender. For Zhang, it might just be the beginning of a championship path. And for fans? We were reminded once again of the unforgiving nature of this sport we love – where careers can end in blood and glory on any given Saturday night.

What did you think of Zhang’s performance? Will you miss seeing Smith compete? Let me know in the comments below!

Source: Image via Vox