On Saturday, April 26, 2025, at UFC Kansas City, veteran light heavyweight Anthony “Lionheart” Smith will step into the octagon for the final time, facing rising Chinese contender Zhang Mingyang. This Anthony Smith vs Zhang Mingyang bout not only signifies the end of Smith’s storied career but also serves as a potential launching pad for Zhang’s ascent in the division. With Smith’s experience and Zhang’s explosive power, this matchup promises to be a compelling contest for fans and bettors on Saturday.
Anthony Smith vs Zhang Mingyang Preview
Anthony Smith (38-21) has been a mainstay in the UFC’s light heavyweight division, known for his resilience and finishing ability. Over his career, he has secured 20 wins by knockout and 15 by submission. However, recent performances have shown signs of decline, with Smith losing five of his last seven fights. His most recent victory came in May 2024, submitting Vitor Petrino in the first round. Since then, he has suffered consecutive losses, including a second-round TKO defeat to Dominick Reyes in December 2024.
In contrast, Zhang Mingyang (18-6) enters the bout with significant momentum. The 26-year-old has compiled an 11-fight win streak, all by stoppage, with his last loss coming all the way back in 2019. Since joining the UFC, Zhang has made a strong impression with back-to-back first-round knockout victories over Brendson Ribeiro and Ozzy Diaz. His aggressive style and finishing prowess have quickly made him a fighter to watch in the light heavyweight division.
Betting Insights
Given the fighters’ recent trajectories, bookmakers have positioned Zhang as the favorite. Current odds from Sportzino are:
- Zhang Mingyang: -500
- Anthony Smith: +375
These odds reflect Zhang’s impressive winning streak and Smith’s recent struggles. Bettors should consider the following factors:
- Smith’s Experience: With 59 professional fights, Smith brings a wealth of experience and has faced top-tier competition throughout his career.
- Zhang’s Finishing Ability: Zhang has demonstrated a consistent ability to finish fights early, with all recent wins coming by knockout in the first round.
- Smith’s Durability: Despite his experience, Smith has shown vulnerability to early stoppages in recent bouts.
Anthony Smith vs Zhang Mingyang Prediction
Under 1.5 Rounds (-209)
220K Gold Coins & 10 FREE Sweeps Coins
- Zhang has not had a fight go past the first round since 2018.
- Smith is on the decline and should get stopped early in this fight.
This matchup presents a classic scenario of veteran experience versus youthful aggression. Smith’s technical skills and fight IQ could pose challenges for Zhang, especially if the fight extends beyond the first round. However, Zhang’s recent performances suggest he possesses the power and precision to end the fight early.
Considering Smith’s recent first-round losses and Zhang’s tendency to secure early knockouts, the likelihood of an early finish is high. While Smith’s experience should not be underestimated, the momentum and physicality favor Zhang.
Prediction: Zhang Mingyang to win by first-round knockout.
For bettors, the odds for the under offer value, as we could very well see a first-round finish. Smith’s underdog status may appeal to those banking on his experience and resilience, but the safer bet leans towards Zhang continuing his knockout streak and the under coming in.
