Anthony Smith went into Stockholm, Sweden last Saturday (June 1, 2019) and took out Alexander Gustafsson via submission in “The Mauler’s” own backyard at UFC Fight Night 153. While the win was huge for “Lionheart,” he didn’t escape enemy territory unscathed.
Indeed, Smith suffered a broken left hand in the fight, but was still able to chug along and get the finish. Anthony took to social media recently to reveal he had undergone surgery to correct the issue, and he has the gnarly pic to prove it.
The injury will keep him out of action for a while, but Smith can find comfort in knowing he is back in the winner’s circle and is firmly in the championship mix. Furthermore, it gives him time to heal while Jon Jones and Thiago Santos take care of business at UFC 239. The rest of the division will further play itself out while Anthony is on the sidelines, as well.
Still, “Lionheart” proved that despite coming up short to “Bones” in his first-ever UFC title shot at UFC 235, he is still very much a threat. And with Daniel Cormier and Alexander Gustafsson on their way out of the fight game, Smith should be close to the top of the list for another shot at the 205-pound strap.
Once Smith is able to return to action, there won’t be a shortage of challengers for him, including former Middleweight-turned Light Heavyweight Luke Rockhold and top contender Corey Anderson; two men Smith just isn’t really fond off.
Plus, Johnny Walker has been cleared to return to action, so he could also be a good challenger for the hard-hitting Smith. Indeed, the 205-pound division is flourishing with talent, so “Lionheart” won’t have trouble finding a dance partner.