Anthony Smith Slams UFC Fighter for ‘Pretending’ to Be Unconscious in Atlanta No-Contest

By Ali Hammad June 16, 2025 09:46

The UFC community was rocked by controversy following the light heavyweight bout at UFC Atlanta on June 14, 2025, which ended in a no-contest after an illegal strike. The incident has sparked heated debate, with former UFC title challenger Anthony Smith publicly criticizing one of the fighters for what he described as “pretending” to be unconscious to manipulate the outcome.

The Controversial Fight and No-Contest Ruling

The bout in question featured Rodolfo Bellato and Paul Craig, two fighters vying to climb the light heavyweight rankings. The fight was competitive until the closing seconds of the first round, when Craig, on his back, delivered an illegal upkick to Bellato’s head while Bellato was grounded. The referee immediately halted the contest, ruling it a no-contest due to the illegal strike.

However, the stoppage was clouded by Bellato’s dramatic reaction. Many observers noted that Bellato appeared to exaggerate his response, glancing at the referee before collapsing in a manner some deemed theatrical. The incident quickly became a viral topic on social media, with fans and analysts divided over the legitimacy of Bellato’s reaction.

Anthony Smith’s Scathing Criticism

Anthony Smith, known for his candid commentary and no-nonsense approach, did not hold back. Speaking on his popular podcast, Smith accused Bellato of “playing the game” by feigning unconsciousness to secure a favorable outcome.

Smith stated, “I’ve seen a lot in this sport, but what Bellato did in Atlanta was next level. He looked at the ref, then just dropped like a sack of potatoes. It was clear to me that he was pretending to be out cold. That’s not what this sport is about. We fight, we take the hits, but we don’t fake it.”

Smith’s comments struck a chord, reflecting a broader frustration among fighters and fans who value toughness and authenticity. He added, “If you’re going to be in the Octagon, you’ve got to be real. The second you start acting, you lose respect not just from your opponent, but from the entire MMA community.”

Bellato’s Defense and Fan Reactions

In response, Bellato took to social media to defend himself, insisting that the illegal upkick was a legitimate and powerful strike that caused a genuine physical reaction. “I’m not an actor,” Bellato wrote on Instagram. “That kick hit me hard and I lost consciousness. Anyone who knows me knows I fight with heart and never quit.”

Fan reactions have been mixed. Some support Smith’s viewpoint, arguing that Bellato’s reaction seemed overly dramatic and undermined the sport’s integrity. Others sympathize with Bellato, emphasizing the dangers of illegal strikes and the importance of fighter safety.

The Broader Implications for MMA

This incident highlights the ongoing tension in MMA between fighter safety and competitive spirit. Illegal strikes, particularly to grounded opponents, are rightly penalized to protect athletes, but the subjective nature of stoppages can lead to controversy.

Veteran referee Herb Dean weighed in, stating, “Referees have a tough job. They have to make split-second decisions to protect fighters. Sometimes, reactions can seem exaggerated, but you have to err on the side of caution.”

What’s Next for Bellato and Craig?

The UFC has yet to announce whether a rematch will be scheduled. Both fighters expressed a desire to move forward, with Craig acknowledging his responsibility for the illegal strike and Bellato hoping to clear his name and prove himself in future bouts.

Anthony Smith’s blunt condemnation of Bellato’s actions at UFC Atlanta adds fuel to a fiery debate about authenticity and sportsmanship in MMA. While the no-contest ruling stands, the controversy underscores the delicate balance between protecting fighters and maintaining the sport’s competitive integrity. As the UFC community awaits the next chapter for Bellato and Craig, the incident serves as a reminder of the high stakes and intense scrutiny that come with fighting at the highest level.