Jacobe Smith's Emotional Reaction to Historic Victory

At UFC 317, held on June 28, 2025, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Jacobe Smith delivered a standout performance with a second-round submission victory over Niko Price. In the post-fight octagon interview with Joe Rogan, as captured in the UFC's official video, Smith expressed immense joy and gratitude for the win. He highlighted the significance of securing his first career submission, a rear-naked choke at the 4:03 mark of the second round, describing the feeling as unparalleled. Smith entered the fight as the biggest betting favorite in UFC history at -2500 odds, a fact mentioned during the broadcast, but he brushed off the pressure of the historic odds, focusing instead on the intensity of his training.

Breaking Down the Fight Dynamics

During the interview, around the 2:15 timestamp, Smith reflected on the challenges he faced in the bout. Despite being a heavy favorite, the first round saw him dominate with powerful punches, a significant takedown, and relentless ground strikes. However, Price managed to survive the onslaught and even landed a notable shot late in the round, testing Smith's endurance. Smith admitted to feeling a bit gassed after the initial flurry but regained control in the second round. He skillfully avoided Price's submission attempts, eventually taking his back to lock in the decisive rear-naked choke, marking a pivotal moment in his undefeated 11-0 career.

Smith's Focus on Growth and Future Aspirations

At approximately the 3:40 mark of the video, Smith discussed his mindset and aspirations moving forward. He emphasized that the betting odds and external hype did not affect his approach, stating that the real challenge lies in the training room. The welterweight prospect, now 2-0 in the UFC, expressed his desire to continue improving and facing tougher opponents. His composure during the conversation underscored his dedication to the sport, as he acknowledged the toughness of Price, a seasoned veteran with a 16-9 record, and credited the experience for pushing him to new heights in his blossoming career.

Recognition of Team and Support System

Towards the end of the interview, near the 5:10 point, Smith took a moment to thank his team and supporters. He credited his coaches and training partners for preparing him to handle the unpredictable style of Price, known for his finishing ability with 10 knockouts and 3 submissions in his career. Smith's appreciation for the collaborative effort behind his success was evident, as he highlighted the importance of every detail in his preparation that led to this defining victory at UFC 317. This win not only solidified his status as an emerging talent in the welterweight division but also showcased his ability to adapt and overcome in high-stakes situations.