In the main event of tonight’s UFC Vegas 15 card, we had a light heavyweight contest that was originally scheduled to be the co-main event. Anthony “Lionheart” Smith (33-16) took on Devin “Brown Bear” Clark (12-4) in a five round light heavyweight showdown.
Just a couple of days ago, this fight was scheduled for three rounds as the co-main of UFC Vegas 15. However, Curtis Blaydes tested positive for COVID and the fight was bumped up. Both fighters also agreed to move it to a five round contest.
Anthony Smith was looking to bounce back after back-to-back losses in the UFC. Smith is a former title challenger, but he’s simply looked lost in about his last seven rounds of action. He was looking to right the ship against Clark.
Devin Clark was looking for the biggest win of his UFC career. Headlining his first show against a former title challenger was a big step up for Clark. Factoring in a two-fight winning streak, and you can see that Clark had a lot going for him.
UFC Vegas 15 Recap
Round 1
As the first round of the UFC Vegas 15 main event got underway, Clark immediately looked to close the distance. Clark landed a good clean right hand and forced the clinch. However, it was Anthony Smith who was able to get the upper hand and slam Clark to the ground.
Once the fight was on the ground, Smith was able to get the back of Clark. However, Clark was able to reverse the position to get top position. Clark started to look to pass the guard. However, Smith was really looking to stay active off his back.
Lionheart was able to lock up a triangle choke from the bottom. Clark fought hard to try to get out of the submission, but he was forced to tap. Huge bounce back win for Anthony Smith.
Anthony Smith def. Devin Clark by Submission (Triangle Choke) – Round 1