Devonte Smith Looking Ahead Following Second-Round TKO Victory Over Justin Jaynes
Today, February 9, 2021, I, Brady Briggs, spoke with UFC lightweight prospect Devonte Smith about his victory on Saturday at UFC Vegas 18, and what could potentially be next for him.
Smith is coming off a second-round TKO victory over Justin Jaynes, after being inactive for nearly 18 months, the longest layoff of his career. He was surprised to hear Jaynes had fought five times since he’d last fought, and attributed his performance to the proper preparation.
I eventually asked Mr. Smith what he expects out of his career before it’s all said and done, and he responded with the following: “I mean, the main thing everybody wants to do, you know, I know I’m gonna do it, and that’s become champion.”
“Because you know, this is a very dangerous sport man. And I know we all love to think we’re superhumans, and you know, super-people, but we’re not. You know, we’re gonna like, wear out, wear and tear, so, at the end of the day when it’s all said and done, I know I’m gonna be champion.
“And I’m gonna have title defenses, and I’m gonna win those title defenses, and I’m gonna stay positive, I’m gonna stay humble, and I’m gonna stay me.”
Smith improved his professional mixed martial arts record to 11-2 with this stoppage victory over Jaynes, ten of those victories coming via knockout, all eleven via finish.
It’ll surely be exciting seeing what’s next for this bright young prospect. Smith’s frame, standing 5’9” with a 76” reach, along with his power and skill set, he’s going to be a tough go for anyone. His striking is so incredibly dangerous, and he’s as athletic as they come.
With Smith still being just 27-years-old, he has a considerable amount of time until he’ll be at his best.
Who would you like to see Devonte Smith in there with next?
