Chinese mixed-martial-arts fighter Zhang Mingyang earned a TKO victory over Anthony Smith during the UFC Kansas City co-main event in 2025 [4].
This trajectory highlights the volatility of Zhang's early UFC career as he balances high-profile homecoming events with international competition. His performance in the U.S. serves as a critical rebound following a high-stakes defeat in his home country.
Zhang's 2025 campaign was marked by a significant setback in Shanghai. During the UFC Shanghai main event, which took place during the weekend of Aug. 17-20, 2025 [3], Zhang suffered a knockout loss to Johnny Walker [1]. The victory for Walker was particularly notable as Brazilian UFC fighters had gone 0-10 in 2025 prior to that win [1].
The loss in China was clouded by external controversy. Reports said Walker had been accused of faking his professional record to secure entry into the UFC [4]. Despite these allegations, Walker's victory ended the losing streak for Brazilian athletes in the promotion.
Zhang found redemption in Kansas City against veteran Anthony Smith. Smith entered the bout with a career record of 37-21 in MMA and 13-11 in the UFC [2]. Zhang secured the TKO stoppage at 4:03 of the round [3].
Prior to the knockout loss in Shanghai, Zhang had been on a strong trajectory, with a win that would have made him four-zero since his UFC debut [4]. Following the events of 2025, his record stands at approximately 3-1 [1].
The shift from a main-event loss in Shanghai to a co-main event victory in Kansas City demonstrates Zhang's ability to compete across different environments, moving from the pressure of a homecoming crowd to the challenges of fighting in the U.S.
“Zhang Mingyang earned a TKO victory over Anthony Smith during the UFC Kansas City co-main event”
Zhang Mingyang's 2025 season illustrates the UFC's strategy of utilizing regional stars to anchor international events while testing their viability against established veterans. The contrast between his loss to Walker and his win over Smith suggests a fighter still finding his ceiling in the light heavyweight division, while the controversy surrounding Walker's record adds a layer of complexity to the legitimacy of Zhang's only loss this period.
