Jimmy Smith previews UFC 292 and talks future of Bellator MMA
Jimmy Smith is a former Bellator commentator who has spent his entire life around combat sports. The current Sirius XM Fight Nation host of ‘Unlocking The Cage’ also serves as a host to ESPN Fight Camp, and is a commentator for Combate Global. With UFC 292 fight week upon us and two title fights taking center stage, there was plenty to discuss.
Speaking to MyMMANews.com for a UFC 292 preview show, Jimmy Smith detailed the main event bantamweight title fight between champion Aljamain Sterling and superstar challenger, Sean O’Malley. The two bantamweights will take center stage at UFC 292 with bad blood between them and the opportunity for Sterling to cement his legacy as one of, if not, the greatest 135-pound fighter in UFC history.
As Smith detailed, the run and activity of Sterling already has him at the top of bantamweight greats, including the fact that he has the most title defenses in division history, with three. A win over O’Malley would continue that title defense streak and while many may criticize his opposition, Jimmy Smith discussed how Aljamain Sterling beating everyone who is put in front him, is all he needs to do to continue to grow his legacy.
Also on the UFC 292 card, a strawweight title fight between champion Weili Zhang and contender Amanda Lemos will be the featured co-main event, as well as a big step-up in competition for Ian Gary who takes on veteran Neil Magny, and the return of Chris Weidman who competes two years after suffering a brutal leg injury.
Outside of the UFC 292 card, there is plenty of buzz and conversation to be had about the future of Bellator MMA, where Jimmy Smith was once a commentator amidst talks that they might be purchased by Professional Fighters League. Smith discussed what the immediate future is of Bellator MMA, how the rosters could come together, who should be worried about a potential merger, and more.
Watch the video above for the full interview with Jimmy Smith.
