Anthony Smith, also known as “Lionheart”, is a name that resonates with every UFC fan. The 33-year-old fighter has made a name for himself in the world of mixed martial arts with his impressive performances and multiple “Performance of the Night” awards. After a long break, Smith is all set to make his comeback at UFC 301 on May 4, where he will face Vitor Petrino on the main card. As we gear up to witness his return, let’s take a closer look at Smith’s training background and the people who have been instrumental in shaping him into the fighter he is today.
Smith’s journey in the world of MMA began at a young age. He started training in martial arts at the age of 14 and quickly fell in love with the sport. He then went on to compete in amateur fights before turning professional in 2008. Since then, he has fought in various promotions before finally making his UFC debut in 2016.
One of the key factors behind Smith’s success has been his training regimen. The UFC veteran trains at the Factory X gym in Englewood, Colorado, under the guidance of head coach Marc Montoya. Montoya, who has been in the MMA scene for over a decade, is known for his unique training methods and has been instrumental in Smith’s growth as a fighter.
Apart from Montoya, Smith also has a strong team of coaches and training partners who have played a crucial role in his journey. One of his main striking coaches is renowned kickboxing coach, Mark Montoya. Smith also works with strength and conditioning coach Jake Ramos, who helps him maintain his physical fitness and endurance.
But it’s not just his coaches who have been a major influence on Smith’s career. He also has a strong support system in his teammates at Factory X. The gym is home to several other UFC fighters, including top-ranked bantamweight fighter Cory Sandhagen and welterweight fighter James Krause. Training alongside such high-level athletes has helped Smith push himself to new limits and constantly improve his skills.
Smith’s training camp for his upcoming fight against Petrino has been intense, with a focus on improving his striking and grappling skills. He has also been working on his mental game, which has been a key factor in his previous victories. With the support of his coaches and teammates, Smith is confident and ready to make a statement in his return to the Octagon.
In addition to his training, Smith also follows a strict diet and nutrition plan to ensure he is in top shape for his fights. He believes in the importance of fueling his body with the right nutrients to perform at his best. This dedication to his training and nutrition has helped him maintain a strong and lean physique, making him a formidable opponent in the UFC.
Smith’s hard work and dedication have paid off in his UFC career so far. He has an impressive record of 34 wins and 16 losses, with notable victories over top fighters like Alexander Gustafsson and Rashad Evans. He has also proven to be a versatile fighter, with 19 of his wins coming by knockout and 11 by submission.
As Smith prepares to step back into the Octagon after a long break, he is determined to continue his winning streak and make a statement in the UFC light heavyweight division. With his strong team of coaches and teammates by his side, there is no doubt that he will put on a spectacular performance at UFC 301.
In conclusion, Anthony Smith’s success in the UFC can be attributed to his hard work, dedication, and the support of his coaches and teammates. He has proven time and again that he is a force to be reckoned with in the Octagon, and his upcoming fight at UFC 301 is sure to be another exciting chapter in his career. As fans, we can’t wait to see what Lionheart has in store for us this weekend.
