Khalil Rountree Jr. secured a significant victory against Anthony Smith at UFC Vegas 83, marked by a walk-off knockout. Rountree’s impressive win, coupled with his decision not to follow up on the knockout punch, earned him praise for maintaining control and avoiding unnecessary damage to his opponent.
This victory, the fifth in a row, propelled him to the No. 8 spot in the UFC light heavyweight rankings. Rountree expressed interest in facing the current champion, Alex Pereira, citing fan excitement and stylistic compatibility. While not explicitly claiming a title shot, Rountree is open to challenges that could lead to it, showcasing newfound confidence in his abilities after this pivotal fight. His strategic decision not to pursue additional strikes reflects his awareness and consideration for the well-being of his opponent, contributing positively to the sport’s image.