Kicking off the main card of UFC 261 was a light heavyweight showdown between top fifteen contenders. Former title challenger Anthony “Lionheart” Smith (34-16) was set to take on the surging Australian contender Jimmy Crute (12-1).
Originally, Crute was set to take on Johnny Walker. However, after Walker required surgery for an injury, the former UFC title challenger stepped up to fill his place. This is a big step up in competition for Jimmy Crute. A win over Lionheart would be massive for his career.
Entering UFC 261, Crute had back-to-back stoppage victories. Standing in his way of a third straight victory was Anthony Smith. Lionheart has gone through an interesting few years. It seems just like yesterday that he was challenging Jon Jones for the title.
Starting with the Jones loss, Smith went just 1-3 in his next for. In his last matchup, the UFC gave him Devin Brown. Lionheart got the first round stoppage and he’s looking to build more momentum. Defeating Jimmy Crute at UFC 261 would greatly assist him in his journey back to the top.
UFC 261 Recap
Round 1
The UFC 261 main card kicked off with a low kick from Crute. Smith was circling on the outside keeping his guard up early in the opening minute. Crute was trying to gauge the range with his jab and he lands a massive body kick. Smith counters with a nice stiff jab.
Another big jab lands for Lionheart. Low kick lands for Crute that Smith counters with a big left hook. A stiff jab from Smith wobbles Jimmy Crute briefly. However, he recovers almost instantly. Another big calf kick lands for Jimmy Crute, but Smith continues to work his jab.
The jab of Smith is a thing of beauty tonight and he lands two more. Crute’s nose is busted up from the jab of Lionheart. However, now Smith is getting hurt from the low kicks of Crute. Smith lands a massive right hand but Crute just eats it. Another big jab from lionheart.
Crute is doing damage to the legs, but Smith is busting his face up here in the first. A big kick from Smith lands to the leg and down goes Crute. However, Crute gets up and immediately lands a takedown. Crute starts landing bombs as the round comes to a close. 1-0 Lionheart after one here at UFC 261.
However, the doctor calls a stop to the action after Crute can’t walk. Leg kick TKO for Lionheart Smith.
Anthony Smith def. Jimmy Crute by TKO – Round 1