Anthony Smith is optimistic about his chances of securing a title shot with a strong performance this Saturday. Stepping up on short notice to face Rountree in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 83, Smith recognizes the intriguing nature of the matchup. Despite being the betting underdog, he sees an opportunity in the lack of a clear-cut next contender for Poatan. Smith believes that a statement win could position him as a legitimate candidate for the title.
Anthony Smith asserts that claiming the title would serve as a means to silence his critics. With a rivalry between Smith and Alex Pereira, the stage is set for a potential showdown. Contemplating the possibility of a title shot against Pereira, Smith believes that emerging victorious in such a bout would not only validate his entire career but also solidify his standing among the best in the sport.
Anthony Smith’s Pursuit of a Title Shot Against Pereira Faces a Crucial Hurdle.
Smith must secure a victory against Khalil Rountree on Saturday. However, the path to a championship opportunity may not be straightforward, as even with a win, ‘Lionheart’ acknowledges the possibility of needing one or two more victories to solidify his contention.
Khalil Rountree is hopeful for a chance to headline a UFC event if he wins against Anthony Smith at UFC Fight Night 233. The two fighters are set to meet in a co-main event light heavyweight bout at the UFC Apex on Saturday. With a four-fight winning streak, Rountree is looking forward to taking on the former title challenger. If he manages to beat Smith, Rountree could be one step closer to achieving his goal of becoming a UFC headliner. The fight will be streamed live on ESPN+.
Originally slated to fight the undefeated Azamat Murzakanov, Rountree had a change of opponent when Murzakanov withdrew. Anthony Smith stepped in to take his place, and Rountree sees this as a bigger opportunity in his career.
Smith Shares His Opinion on Whether Jon Jones Should Be Stripped of His Title
There have been recent discussions led by Daniel Cormier and interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall about the possibility of Jon Jones being stripped of his heavyweight title during his injury recovery. However, Anthony Smith, who fought against Jones for the light heavyweight title at UFC 235 in 2019, disagrees with this proposal.
During the media day before UFC Fight Night 233, ‘Lionheart’ made a statement;
“Jon Jones can do whatever the f**k he wants. Really. He’s earned that. He’s never been known as a guy that pulls out of fights. For whatever anybody says about him, he’s never strayed from a challenge. He’s always taken on the next best guy.”
Leading up to UFC Fight Night 233, the story surrounding Anthony Smith’s hopes for a title shot against Alex Pereira, as well as his views on Jon Jones situation, builds up excitement in the world of mixed martial arts.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
