UFC Fight Night: Smith vs Spann- Anthony Smith vs Ryan Spann: Prediction and Analysis

The UFC returns to action after a short break with UFC Vegas 37. A light-heavyweight clash between former title challenger Anthony ‘Lionheart’ Smith and Ryan Spann will headline the fight card. 

‘Lionheart’ is currently ranked 6th in the UFC’s 205-pound division, whereas Spann is ranked 11th in the division. A win will be crucial for both men to stake a claim at a title shot soon. 

Ahead of the fight, we take a closer look at the strengths and weaknesses of both men involved and map out a possible route to victory for both Ryan Spann and Anthony Smith. 

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Anthony Smith vs Ryan Spann promises to be a cracker of a fight at UFC Vegas 37 

Anthony Smith made his UFC debut in February 2016 with a win over ​​Leonardo Augusto Guimaraes. ‘Lionheart’ then won six of his next seven fights in the UFC, with his only loss coming at the hands of Thiago Santos. Smith challenged for the UFC title in March 2019, where he came up short against Jon Jones. ‘Lionheart’ is currently 2-1 in his last three fights with his most recent win coming against Jimmy Crute at UFC 261. 

Ryan Spann, on the other hand, made his promotional debut on Dana White’s Contender Series with a win over Emiliano Sordi. ‘Superman’ has since won five of his six fights in the UFC. Spann is currently 2-1 in his last three fights with his most recent win being a devastating knockout win over Misha Cirkunov in March. 

‘Lionheart’ has secured 54% of his wins via T/KO and is most comfortable on his feet. He has landed an impressive 2.94 significant strikes per minute in the UFC, absorbing a concerning 4.38 in return. This might be an area Spann can exploit given he has a 3-inch reach advantage to work with and lands 3.55 significant strikes per minute.

‘Superman’ is arguably the more well-rounded fighter with good knockout power and a slick Jiu-Jitsu game. He has secured 58% of his wins via submission and is a threat on the ground. Spann averages 1.72 takedowns per 15 minutes with an accuracy of 41%. This is another area Spann can look to capitalize on given Smith has a takedown defense of just 51%. 

Prediction: Ryan Spann to claim a second-round submission

What do you make of the fight between Ryan Spann and Anthony Smith? Let us know who you think will win!