Smith Says He's Not Close To Prime After 60-Second Finish

Elijah Smith stopped Davey Grant inside a minute at UFC Vegas 124 and says his best work remains years away.

The 24-year-old bantamweight landed a highlight-reel knockout over the veteran on Saturday night. In his post-fight interview with UFC News, Smith pointed to his age and insisted he has barely begun to peak as a fighter, per Sherdog.

Smith On His Development At Bantamweight

Smith told reporters that grueling sparring sessions — including rounds where he absorbs beatings from training partners — prepare him to dominate once the cage door closes. He framed the punishment as a deliberate part of his process.

Against Grant, Smith said his strategy centered on reading the veteran's rhythm before landing the decisive blow. Once Grant absorbed the full force of his power, Smith added, the fight was effectively over.

The rising prospect believes the finish earned him a meaningful step up in competition, though he stopped short of calling out a specific name. "I'm not even close to my prime," Smith said of his trajectory in the division.

UFC Vegas 124 marked Smith's third consecutive stoppage inside the octagon. No date has been announced for his next appearance.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Elijah Smith says he's 'not even close to my prime' after 60-second KO