Anthony Smith reflects on missing weight as UFC 283 title fight backup

UFC 283's light heavyweight title matchup between Glover Teixeira and Jamahal Hill had Anthony Smith as the designated backup fighter. However, Smith was failed to make weight at the official weigh-ins, meaning he wouldn't have been able to win the title had he needed to step in for the main event.

Ultimately, both title contenders made weight, and Smith's services were not required. However, Smith chose to address his miss and the criticism he has been receiving from fans.

On the Believe You Me podcast with Michael Bisping, Anthony Smith explained that he was still ready to fight, but wouldn't have had the chance to become champ:

"I was in shape, I was really low couple weeks ago. And sh*t happens but I have no excuses. I had a job, I had to go down and make weight to be the alternative if something happened. To be fair, I was still there, I was still ready to fight if something happened, if someone had to pull out. I still would have fought, I just wouldn't be eligible to win the title."

'Lionheart' then apologized to fans and maintained that his previous criticism on the issue remains valid. With that, he made no exception for himself:

"But I have no excuses, I have been an absolute a*shole about people missing weight. You got one job, you gotta show up on weight. That's the easiest part of the job, right? So I stand by everything I've ever said about everybody else, that you have to make weight, that it's not an option. And I'll accept whatever sh*t's coming my way. Doesn't change my perspective."

Check out Smith's full comments on YouTube:

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Anthony Smith weighs in on Francis Ngannou's future in boxing

Francis Ngannou's shock exit from the UFC has opened up a possible future in boxing for the former heavyweight champion.

WBC heavyweight king Tyson Fury has also expressed interest in a bout against the Cameroonian. But Anthony Smith gave his thoughts on Ngannou boxing and dismissed it as a viable option for him.

Smith said on the Believe You Me podcast:

“He’s uncommon in MMA. He’s unique. He’s very special. But in professional boxing, he’s average at best. He’s an average puncher, he’s a below-average boxer, he’s below average in his footwork and movement, he’s below average in his defense. He’s not going to fare that well as a heavyweight professional boxer. So because he has a fantastic name and an incredible highlight reel in MMA, he’s going to get a big fight for sure. But probably just one.”

Anthony Smith also suggested that 'The Predator' will likely not make as much money outside of the UFC.

Check out his comments on YouTube: