The world of Anime has inspired many Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fighters, but it is the words, “I want to be the very best that no one ever was,” that resonates with Cole Smith.
Smith (7-0) received the red carpet treatment at the UFC Fight Night 158 open workouts on Wednesday (watch it here) despite being on the “Prelims” undercard. A big factor was his status as a hometown favorite, hailing from nearby Squamish, British Columbia. And an audible cheer erupted from the crowd when the Pokemon theme song.
“I love Pokemon,” Smith said. “I love repping Pokemon. Before all my fights I watch it, I play it. It takes my mind off things. I’m still a kid at heart.”
Despite the diverse roster of champions, Canada is sorely missing a truly elite UFC athlete. Smith is starting to create a buzz for himself. When asked which Canadian fighter will be next in line for UFC gold, the answer was obvious. “To be honest, off the top of my head I can’t name any other than myself,” Smith said. “Let’s face it. I’m the next guy in line. I know I’m only 1-0 but we’re getting there. We’re climbing the ladder.”
Smith fights Miles Johns at UFC Fight Night 158, which takes place tomorrow night (Sat., Sept. 14, 2019) inside Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada. The event is headlined by a “Fight of the Year” candidate between Donald Cerrone vs. Justin Gaethje.
To check out the latest and greatest UFC Fight Night 158: “Cowboy vs. Gaethje” news and notes be sure to hit up our comprehensive event archive right here.
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