Aaron Tau and Elijah Smith face off ahead of Contender Series, week six (Photo by Zuffa LLC)
Elijah Smith, the newest member of the UFC's bantamweight division, isn't letting the bright lights distract him. Despite a whirlwind few weeks since his impressive Contender Series victory, Smith remains grounded and focused on his next challenge.
In a recent interview with RG, Smith reflected on the emotional rollercoaster of fight week, where he received a short-notice call-up. "There were a lot of nerves," he admitted, "but I just stayed focused, knowing this is just another fight."
The fight itself was a barnburner, showcasing Smith's well-rounded skillset. While acknowledging the pressure of living up to his father, a UFC veteran himself, Smith emphasized carving his own path. "I don't feel any extra pressure," he said. "We have similar styles, but I argue I'm the more exciting fighter."
The victory was particularly sweet for Smith, who battled self-doubt in the past.
"Hearing Dana White's praise after the fight," he shared, "was a huge confidence booster. Every fighter goes through that, but to put on a performance like that, it proves I'm ready for the next level."
Looking ahead, Smith is eager for his debut. "Ideally, I want someone who matches my intensity," he declared. "Someone like Payton Talbot would be a good one, but I want to build a foundation first."
With his sights set on long-term success, Smith is already inspiring others at his gym. "The gym has gotten a lot of eyes on it," he revealed. "Hopefully, it brings more talent to Colorado Springs."
Smith expressed his gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support. He encourages them to follow his journey on social media and promises to keep them updated on his next fight.
Elijah Smith's story is one of perseverance and determination. As he steps into the prestigious UFC octagon, the expectations are high, and the future looks bright for this rising star.
Garrett Kerman
