Smith Drops, Strangles Spann

Anthony Smith and Ryan Spann went to war tonight (Sat., Sept. 18, 2021) in a main event Light Heavyweight clash from inside UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, at UFC Vegas 37. Smith’s rise to Light Heavyweight prominence was fairly unexpected, but even after a pair of decisive defeats, “Lionheart” rebounded in style to get right back in the mix. He looked to continue that upward trajectory here opposite Spann, one of the more impressive pickups off “Contenders Series.” Spann was clearly improving from fight-to-fight, but it remained be to seen if he’s ready for the top right now.

In the main event, one man looked to break into the current 205-pound title mix. Strap in for tonight’s main event and follow along below for live updates and highlight clips:

Round One

Smith opens the fight with a nice calf kick. Spann checks the second attempt and tries to counter with a jab. Spann connects on a big right hand counter to Smith’s front kick then moves into a takedown attempt. Smith breaks free and stuns his foe with a big hook! Spann is on his back, trying to work back to his feet, and Smith starts wrapping up the neck. Spann manages to scramble out of danger and move into top position himself in a wild exchange. Back on their feet, Smith is landing. Spann sticks a hard jab. Smith wobbles his foe a second time with his lead hand, then a right drops Spann! Smith takes the back fully and starts working to flatten his foe out. Smith sneaks an arm under the chin and forces the tap!

Result: Anthony Smith defeats Ryan Spann via first-round rear naked choke

For complete UFC Vegas 37: “Smith vs. Spann” results and play-by-play, click HERE!