Anthony Smith released a classy statement after losing a unanimous decision to Johnny Walker at UFC on ABC 4.
Smith (36-18 MMA) entered the contest looking to bounce back, after suffering a TKO loss to Magomed Ankalaev in most of the previous cases. octagon appearing last July. Prior to that setback, Lionheart was riding a three-fight winning streak that included straight wins over Devin Clark, Jimmy Crote and Ryan Spahn.
Meanwhile, Johnnie Walker (21-7 MMA) entered the Octagon this afternoon on a winning streak, having scored halting wins over Ion Cutelaba and Paul Craig on most of his previous efforts. The 31-year-old Brazilian had gone 3-2 over his past five matches overall before tonight’s co-main event.
While Anthony Smith was able to get some good right hands throughout the three-round contest, it was Johnnie Walker’s kicking game that seemed to make the difference. The Brazilian hit the legs and body of “Lionheart” and it looked like he was going to win by unanimous decision. After the judges’ verdict, Walker proceeded to call out current Ultimate Fighting Championship heavyweight champion Jamhal Hill. Meanwhile, Smith appeared to be considering retirement, but no official announcement was made.
Official UFC on ABC 4 Results: Johnnie Walker defeated. Anthony Smith via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x 2)
Shortly after the fight ended, ‘Lionheart’ took to Twitter issuing the following statement about the loss:
congratulations for @tweet and his team. He was the best man in the Octagon tonight.
– Anthony Smith (@lionheartasmith) May 13, 2023
“Congratulations to JohnnyWalker and his team. He was the best man in the Octagon tonight.”
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