Jacobe Smith believes his victory over Randy Brown at UFC Vegas 123 was the biggest win of his career, as the unbeaten welterweight proved he could maintain his pace over three rounds.
Smith (14-0 MMA, 5-0 UFC) earned a unanimous decision over Brown in Saturday's co-main event, extending his unbeaten record and going the distance for the first time in his UFC career. It was also only the second time in his professional career that he had fought to a decision.
Speaking during Monday's appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Smith expressed satisfaction with his performance, particularly after facing questions about his ability to maintain his pace over a full fight.
“I was more happy than usual with the performance for sure,” Smith said. “Especially with all these people saying I ain't got a gas tank and all that. It don't really get to me, but it's good to clarify with yourself that, you know, you can get the job done no matter what.”
The Oklahoma native had built a reputation for finishing opponents, but he was pleased to demonstrate that he could remain effective over 15 minutes against a seasoned UFC veteran.
Smith was also asked whether the victory over Brown represented the best win of his career to date.
“Yeah, absolutely. It was the best win, toughest opponent,” Smith said.
Brown had previously suffered a loss to Niko Price, whom Smith has also defeated. However, Smith believes stylistic differences made his matchup with Brown a more difficult challenge.
“I would say he did end up taking a loss to Niko Price (who Smith holds a win over), but just from my (perspective) you know, styles make matches,” Smith said. “He felt a little tougher than Niko was, so yeah, I think this is the best one on my career so far.”
Despite going the distance for only the second time in his career, Smith said he was never concerned about losing his undefeated record.
When asked how he felt about fighting through all three rounds, Smith acknowledged that he had experienced some difficult moments in the past.
“It was only one fight where it went the distance where I was like in the middle of the fight. I'm like, oh shit, like, God, I'm feeling it,” Smith said.
“But I mean, I ain't ever been worried about my 0 being taken by any means.”
