In a recent episode of the JAXXON Podcast, former UFC bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw did not hold back his thoughts on Anthony Smith’s chances of ever becoming a UFC champion. Dillashaw’s comments came after Smith’s unanimous decision loss to Roman Dolidze at UFC 303, a fight that has seemingly put an end to Smith’s championship dreams.
T.J. Dillashaw’s Harsh Critique
Dillashaw was particularly critical of Smith’s performance, accusing him of giving up during the fight. “No, never,” Dillashaw said when asked if Smith could become a champion. “Dude, he’s not good enough. OK, so he gives up. Did he give himself that name or what? He gives up in there”. Dillashaw went on to mock Smith’s nickname “Lionheart,” suggesting that Smith did not live up to it during his bout with Dolidze.
The Fight in Question
During the second round of the fight, Dillashaw noted that Smith did not even attempt to stand up when Dolidze had him on the ground. “The second round, he doesn’t even try to f**king stand up,” Dillashaw remarked. “Roman’s on his back; he doesn’t even try to stand up. I don’t give a sh*t. I’m fighting until I die, dog. I’m fighting with one arm, I’m doing whatever I can”.
Anthony Smith’s Career and Aspirations
Anthony Smith, who has been a professional MMA fighter for over a decade, reached a light heavyweight title shot in 2019 against Jon Jones at UFC 235. Despite losing that fight by unanimous decision, Smith has continued to compete at a high level, facing a mix of former champions, top contenders, and rising prospects. However, his recent performance against Dolidze has cast doubt on his ability to ever capture UFC gold.
Smith himself has acknowledged the difficulty of his situation. In a post-fight interview, he admitted that his loss to Dolidze likely marks the end of his title aspirations. “If we’re being just honest here, that [loss] probably puts a nail in the coffin for my opportunity to ever win a title,” Smith said.
T.J. Dillashaw’s comments have sparked a debate within the MMA community about Anthony Smith’s future. While some fans and analysts believe that Smith still has the potential to make a comeback, others agree with Dillashaw’s harsh assessment. Regardless of the differing opinions, one thing is clear: Anthony Smith’s path to a UFC championship has never been more uncertain.
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