UFC on ESPN 72 – Elijah Smith vs Toshiomi Kazama – Full Fight Replay Available Today

Elijah “Swift” Smith faced off against Toshiomi “Silent Finisher” Kazama at UFC on ESPN 72, held at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on August 9, 2025. Smith entered the fight with an impressive 8-1 record and was coming off a close split-decision win in his UFC debut. Kazama, holding an 11-4 record, sought to build momentum after a recent victory, bringing his renowned submission skills into a matchup that promised an exciting contrast of styles.

From the opening bell, Kazama tried to assert control by engaging Smith in the clinch, aiming to leverage his grappling expertise. However, Smith showcased strong defensive skills, evading submission attempts and managing to turn the tables. When Kazama went for a triangle choke, Smith skillfully escaped, gaining top position and demonstrating both physical strength and tactical awareness.

The turning point came when Smith lifted Kazama off the mat and delivered a powerful slam, reminiscent of legendary finishes in MMA history. The impact was brutal, and although Kazama briefly regained his composure, the referee stepped in to stop the fight at 4 minutes and 10 seconds of the first round. The spectacular finish highlighted Smith’s ability to capitalize on openings and execute under pressure.

With this victory, Smith improved his record to 9-1 and secured his second straight UFC win, confirming his status as a rising prospect in the bantamweight division. His combination of striking, wrestling defense, and fight IQ make him an exciting fighter to watch as he climbs the ranks. Kazama, while defeated, showed resilience and heart, but the loss underscored the intense level of competition at the UFC’s highest tiers.

Looking ahead, Smith’s performance has fans eager to see him matched with tougher opponents to test his full potential. Meanwhile, Kazama will likely focus on refining his game plan and shoring up his defenses if he hopes to bounce back and maintain relevance in the division. Both fighters remain compelling figures in a competitive weight class hungry for new stars.