Anthony Smith Apologizes to Fans After Knockout Loss to Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC Vegas 83

In a sincere message to fans, one-time UFC light heavyweight title challenger Anthony Smith expressed apologies following his knockout defeat to Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC Vegas 83.
Smith faced a decisive left-hand blow from Rountree in the third round of the ESPN+ event, resulting in a swift finish. Rountree’s restraint prevented additional damage to Smith, who hit the canvas early in the final frame.
The 35-year-old fighter, who previously secured a victory over Ryan Spann, refrained from making definitive statements about his career. Despite giving his all in the match, Smith acknowledged that sometimes efforts fall short.
Taking the fight against Rountree on short notice after Azamat Murzakanov withdrew due to illness, Smith commended Rountree’s performance, stating, “Congrats to Khalil and his team. Helluva performance. You deserve it. Sorry to everyone who supports me.”
Rountree, seizing the moment in his post-fight speech, called out light heavyweight champ Alex Pereira, securing his fifth consecutive octagon win after a challenging 1-3 stretch that momentarily questioned his title-worthiness.