Episode 3 of On Paper with Anthony Smith Features MMA Legend Rashad Evans
MMA legend Rashad Evans joins the show to reflect on his storied career and what it means to step back into competition. Evans has cemented his place in MMA history, but he still has the fire to compete.
Despite retiring, Evans admits that the competitive itch never fully goes away. He talks about how staying in shape and continuing to train keeps him feeling young and connected to the sport.
Whether it’s mentoring younger fighters or preparing for his own fights, he remains deeply involved in the fight game and sees combat sports as a lifelong journey rather than just a career.
Evans Speaks On The GFL Controversy
Evans clarifies his situation with the Global Fight League (GFL), revealing that they announced him as part of their roster without his consent. He emphasizes that while he was interested in a fight with Shogun Rua, he never signed a contract and asked them to remove his name.
Evans warns fighters to be cautious with organizations that overpromise, and he stresses the importance of transparency and contractual integrity in the fight business. Rashad believes he should be treated with the respect and professionalism that fighters of his caliber deserve.
Evans & The Rampage Rematch: A Rivalry Reignited
Evans and Jackson have a long history, dating back to their heated UFC rivalry. Now, they’re set to face off again—this time in a boxing ring. Evans acknowledges the competitive fire between them but insists that their dynamic has changed over the years.
While the tension remains, so does the respect, making this a fight that fans won’t want to miss.Despite his excitement, Evans admits that stepping back into the ring isn’t just his decision.
His wife isn’t thrilled about the fight, knowing the risks that come with it. Still, Evans sees this as one last opportunity to test himself against a familiar foe, proving that he still has what it takes to compete at a high level.
Evans Talks About The Mental & Physical Grind of a Comeback
Preparing for a fight at this stage in his career requires a different mindset. Evans explains that while his body still responds well to training, recovery and preparation take more effort than they used to. He leans on his years of experience, focusing on efficiency rather than overexertion.
More than just a physical battle, Evans sees this fight as a test of his mental toughness. He acknowledges the doubts and pressures that come with making a return but embraces the challenge.
For Evans, this fight isn’t just about beating Rampage—it’s about proving to himself that he can still rise to the occasion.
Kevin Holland vs. Rampage Jackson Tension
Evans weighs in on the recent incident between Kevin Holland and Rampage Jackson. He describes Holland as a “live wire” and believes the young fighter is trying to regain the edge he once had. Evans also touches on the generational differences in the fight game, saying younger fighters don’t always show the same level of respect to veterans.
Fatherhood & Coaching: Lessons from the Mat
Anthony Smith, co-host of the show, shares his weekend spent coaching his daughter’s wrestling tournament. He opens up about the struggles of dealing with aggressive sports parents and how he approaches coaching differently, focusing on attitude and effort rather than just winning.
The Dark Side of Youth Sports
Smith expresses frustration over parents who scream at their kids, calling them quitters and embarrassing them in front of crowds. He shares a personal story about watching a dad berate his young daughter for losing a match. Smith emphasizes that children should enjoy sports and learn from them, not be pressured into unrealistic expectations.
Comfort Sweatshirts & Life Beyond Fighting
The conversation takes a lighter turn when Smith and Kelly Murphy talk about their love for oversized comfort sweatshirts. Smith shares how he stumbled upon the brand through his daughter and later connected with its founder, who promotes mental health awareness.
Final Thoughts: Rashad’s Perspective on Fighting & Life
Evans reflects on what keeps fighters coming back even after retirement. He believes the desire to compete never fully leaves and that stepping back into the ring is more about proving something to oneself rather than others.
As his fight with Rampage approaches, Evans is focused on enjoying the moment and making the most of this opportunity.