Bare-knuckle boxer Sydney Smith recently faced adversity but found humor in the situation as she wore a smile despite enduring severe injuries in her recent match.
At BKFC KnuckleMania 4 in Los Angeles, the 32-year-old Smith courageously accepted a last-minute opportunity to compete against Crystal Pittman. She had to step up two weight divisions for the match.
Within moments of the match’s commencement, Smith was struck by a powerful overhand right from Pittman. Unable to evade further blows, she succumbed to a series of punishing strikes against the ropes.
Post-match footage revealed the toll of the encounter on Smith’s physique. She was bleeding from her mouth, had a cut beneath her eye, and her body was covered with bruises. This all happened just after a mere 48 seconds in the ring with Pittman.
Despite her injuries, Smith showcased a resilient spirit. A photo of Smith flaunting her injuries for the camera went viral on social media.
Smith playfully referred to herself as ‘Frankenstein face.’ In a seven-minute Instagram video, she provided fans with reassurance, expressing gratitude for their support.
Smith stated: “I just want to say thank you so much for the support. I’m going to ice my Frankenstein face, but other than that God is still good. Winning is great but I came up two weight classes on a week’s notice and you know. I’ll take an ass whooping before you tell me I’m scared. No problem.”
“It is what it is. I went out there and I threw my hat in when other people didn’t. We live to fight another day, Hopefully, they have me back out super, super soon. I’m good. I just got caught with some stuff and started throwing back but I guess it was too late. Props to Crystal, she’s a sweetheart.”
“It is what it is, you can’t win them all. I’ll be back soon. I’m fine. I’m good other than hurt pride and a little bit of a swollen face. I got caught with some stuff and just kind of turtled up for a second and then I started to throw back and the ref had already stepped in to call it.”
“I’m sorry I didn’t put on a war for you guys, but the next one will be better.”
Smith began her career as an MMA competitor. She had a 4-3 amateur record before losing in her 2023 professional debut. The former strawweight champion then switched to bare-knuckle boxing, where she won in her first match. However, she has since lost her last two bouts.
With her combat spirit intact, Smith understands the importance of allowing her body sufficient time to recuperate before stepping back into the ring.