Anderson Silva has responded strongly to UFC CEO Dana White, who recently discussed the conclusion of Silva’s time with the promotion. The former middleweight champion took to social media to counter White’s narrative and defend his own version of events.
In a recent interview, White stated that Silva has not spoken to him since being informed that his UFC career was over following a 2020 loss to Uriah Hall. White suggested that fighters often resist acknowledging the end of their competitive careers, even when their performance indicates it’s time. He characterized Silva’s final UFC fights as a period with “eight or nine or 10” losses, while also mentioning Silva’s subsequent boxing matches.
Silva Criticizes White’s Recollection
Silva, using the term “the bald guy,” dismissed White’s remarks. He asserted that White continues to discuss his accomplishments years after his departure from the UFC and claimed he had “saved the promotion more than once.” Furthermore, Silva challenged White’s assessment of his fight record, suggesting that White “doesn’t know how to count.”
This exchange highlights a seemingly strained relationship since Silva’s exit from the UFC. White has previously explained his decision by citing Silva’s age (in his 40s) and a series of losses. Silva, however, appears to feel that the UFC boss mishandled the conclusion of his career. It’s noted that Silva has continued to compete in other combat sports, including boxing matches against notable figures like Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Jake Paul, and Tyron Woodley.
Despite their current disagreement, Anderson Silva remains an iconic figure in MMA, whose championship reign was instrumental in the UFC’s growth in the 2010s. Both individuals are, in their own way, reflecting on Silva’s legacy and the appropriate time for a champion to retire.
