Anthony Smith Tattoos: Meaning Behind the UFC Light Heavyweight’s Back Tattoo and Other Inks

In the UFC, a fighter’s tattoos often speak just as loudly as their fists. From Conor McGregor’s iconic gorilla and tiger ink to Israel Adesanya’s anime-inspired designs, body art has become an extension of identity in the Octagon. Anthony Smith is no exception. Known as ‘Lionheart’ for his grit and warrior spirit, the veteran light heavyweight carries more than just experience into each fight—he carries meaning inked across his skin.

As he prepares to face Mingyang Zhang at UFC on ESPN 66 in Kansas City, fans have once again turned their eyes to the elaborate artwork on Smith’s body, especially the massive back piece that draws curiosity every time he steps into the cage. With a career that spans over a decade and battles against legends like Jon Jones and Glover Teixeira, it’s no surprise that his tattoos tell a story just as compelling as his fight record!

What does Anthony Smith’s back tattoo mean?

The UFC fighter has multiple tattoos on his back. The first is his surname ‘Smith’ inked in large fonts like on the back of a sports jersey. But the ones that truly stand out are the dream catcher and the goat skull tattoo. Talking about the largest, the dream catcher is the first tattoo that will catch one’s attention on Smith’s back. Covering the entirety of his lower back, the dream catcher tattoo originated in Native American culture. It is a tattoo that has deep symbolic meaning, representing protection by capturing negative dreams and thoughts and allowing only happy dreams to enter one’s sleep.

The feathers that frequently dangle from it represent lightness, spirituality, and the ability to achieve higher realms of awareness. Beads weaved into the dream catcher’s web may indicate a collection of positive dreams or life lessons. As a result, a dream catcher tattoo can serve as a reminder to seek harmony, defend oneself from negativity, and pursue personal growth and self-discovery. The third tattoo on his back is that of a goat’s skull. Placed on Smith’s upper back, goat tattoos represent freedom and a carefree nature. They demonstrate one’s originality and ability to defy societal norms to flaunt their distinct perspectives.

Furthermore, the goat skull is a popular symbol in many civilizations. Some see it positively, while others consider it a creature that brings harm. The goat skull, as in Pagan tradition, represents the concepts of life, death, and the afterlife. It is also associated with the Horned God, who symbolizes fertility and abundance. In Hindu mythology, a goat skull represents the concept of change and breaking down obstacles. The goat skull is also linked with the goddess Kali, therefore, the tattoo could also be interpreted as a symbol of feminine power.

Meaning behind Anthony Smith’s chest tattoos

Anthony Smith has a fascinating mandala art tattoo on the center of his chest. Mandala tattoos are often used to symbolize charm and good luck. They also hold meanings that relate to love, empathy, and compassion. His center tattoo also has a little lion head attached to it near his heart, a reference to his moniker, ‘Lionheart’. The lion tattoo may symbolize courage and pride. Smith also has an infinity symbol that has the names of his daughters Avaya and Jean on his upper chest. A rather sweet gesture to prove how much his daughters mean to him and how their love will remain endless, like the infinity sign.

Other tattoos on Anthony Smith’s body

Starting from top to bottom, Smith has numerous distinct and striking tattoos on his body. On his right arm is a tribal design tattoo that details his cultural roots. On the other hand, he has another larger design of a similar kind. On his right leg, there’s a Samurai tattoo that symbolizes the strength and courage of the legendary Japanese warriors. Ancient Japanese tattoos are some of the most sought-after designs by fighters even today.

Smith’s oldest daughter, Ariah, was born on November 6, 2011. For her, he has a left shoulder tattoo that reads “XI-VI-MMXI.” The left side of his stomach is covered by a tribal-designed lion that may symbolize courage and pride. He also has tattoos that read ‘No Regrets’ and ‘Momma’ on his body, which are rather self-explanatory.

Anthony Smith’s massive sleeve tattoo

Anthony Smith clearly loves tattoos. His right arm is covered in a beautifully done full-sleeve tattoo that has many water-based themes. Water can be seen flowing through the tattoo, which includes koi fish, dragons, and carp, which are important motifs in East Asian cultures and signify strength, good fortune, and ferocity.

From koi fish swimming upstream on his sleeve to the cryptic and often criticized back tattoo, Anthony Smith’s ink reflects his journey—one marked by persistence, transformation, and an unbreakable will. Whether fans admire the art or mock it, there’s no denying that each piece on his body carries deeper meaning than meets the eye.

Now, with what could be his retirement bout against the rising Mingyang Zhang on the horizon, will ‘Lionheart’s’ last chapter in the UFC be as bold as the tattoos he wears? Let us know in the comments below!