Jacobe Smith has harsh message for Kevin Holland after his UFC 332 withdrawal: ‘I want to murder’ him

Jacobe Smith made a dominant UFC 332 statement on Saturday, stopping late-notice replacement Bruce Whitehead in just 92 seconds to secure his fourth UFC victory. Though Smith wanted to face Kevin Holland, "Trailblazer" withdrew due to injury, forcing the promotion to find an alternative opponent on short notice.

Smith delivered the explosive performance he had prepared, ultimately taking Whitehead to the ground and finishing him efficiently. "I knew what I got to give, and not too many can withstand what I've got when I'm ready to send that storm out there," Smith said post-fight, adding that he had anticipated a walk-off knockout but adjusted his strategy in the moment.

However, Smith's frustration with Holland boiled over after the victory. The two fighters have now been scheduled twice—first in July, then at UFC 332—with Holland withdrawing both times due to injury. Compounding Smith's anger is the fact that Holland has since accepted a fight against Uros Medic at UFC 334 next month, suggesting his injury may not be as severe as claimed.

"I want to kill Kevin Holland. I want to murder Kevin Holland," Smith said bluntly. "[He] put me through two fight camps." Smith emphasized the broader disruption to his life, noting he had paused plans outside of fighting to prepare. He warned Holland that if the Medic bout doesn't end Holland's streak, Smith will be coming for him next.

Smith also issued a broader warning to any future opponent: anyone stepping into the cage with him will need to be prepared to fight all 15 minutes, a clear signal that his intensity and cardio are elite-level threats.