Multiple-time UFC ‘Performance of the Night’ winner Anthony Smith is ready to make his highly anticipated return to the octagon on May 4 at UFC 301. After a year-long hiatus, ‘Lionheart’ will take on Vitor Petrino in what is expected to be an explosive matchup on the main card.
The 33-year-old fighter has been training tirelessly for his comeback and is eager to showcase his skills and prove that he is still a top contender in the UFC’s light heavyweight division. But who are the people behind Anthony Smith’s success? Let’s take a closer look at his coaches and teammates.
Smith’s journey in the world of mixed martial arts began at a young age, as he started training in various disciplines such as boxing, kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. However, it was his move to Nebraska that truly kickstarted his MMA career.
In 2010, Smith joined the renowned MMA gym, the Premier Combat Center, in Omaha, Nebraska, where he trained under the tutelage of head coach Scott Morton. Under Morton’s guidance, Smith honed his skills and developed into a well-rounded fighter.
One of Smith’s most notable training partners at the Premier Combat Center is UFC veteran Drew Dober, who has been a part of the gym since its inception. Dober and Smith have been training partners for over a decade and have pushed each other to become better fighters.
In addition to Dober, Smith also trains with other top fighters such as Tim Elliott, who is a former UFC flyweight title challenger, and Darrick Minner, who recently made his UFC debut. The Premier Combat Center boasts a talented group of fighters who constantly push each other to improve and succeed.
But Smith’s training doesn’t stop at his gym in Nebraska. In 2019, he made the move to Colorado to join Factory X, a renowned MMA gym founded by head coach Marc Montoya. This move proved to be a pivotal moment in Smith’s career as he has since gone on to achieve some of the biggest wins of his career.
Under the guidance of Montoya, Smith has further refined his skills and added new dimensions to his game. He has also been able to train with top fighters such as former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler and highly regarded prospects like Youssef Zalal and Ian Heinisch.
Smith’s coaches at Factory X also include experienced striking coach Marc Montoya and grappling coach Eliot Marshall. Together, they have helped ‘Lionheart’ become a well-rounded fighter with a diverse skillset.
But it’s not just the coaches and training partners that have played a crucial role in Smith’s success. His wife, Chelsea Smith, is also an integral part of his team. Chelsea, who is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, is often seen in Smith’s corner during his fights and has been a constant source of support and motivation for him.
In addition to his coaches and wife, Smith also credits his mental coach, Dr. Ryan Thalman, for playing a significant role in his success. Thalman has been working with Smith for several years, helping him to overcome mental barriers and perform at his best inside the octagon.
Smith’s training team is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. He surrounds himself with top coaches and training partners who constantly push him to improve and evolve his skills. This is evident in his performances inside the octagon, as he has become a force to be reckoned with in the UFC’s light heavyweight division.
As Smith makes his return to the cage this weekend, fans can expect to see a well-prepared and highly motivated fighter. With a strong team behind him, ‘Lionheart’ is ready to roar once again and prove that he is a top contender in the UFC.