Rafael Freitas has finally addressed the incident where he attacked MMA icon Wanderlei Silva during Spaten Fight Night 2.
Silva, a legendary figure renowned for his time in the UFC and Pride, made a much-anticipated return to the ring last Saturday in São Paulo.
Following Anderson Silva`s exhibition boxing match against Chael Sonnen at the promotion`s inaugural event a year prior, `The Axe Murderer` was the main event at Spaten Fight Night 2, facing former two-time Brazilian boxing champion Acelino Freitas.
Concerns had already been raised regarding the 49-year-old`s return, particularly in light of his previous statements about a brain injury in 2024. These fears tragically materialized when the veteran fighter was rendered unconscious in the ring.
Rafael Freitas Details His Actions During the Ring Brawl
Wanderlei Silva`s knockout didn`t occur during the official fight but rather during a chaotic brawl that erupted in the ring. The altercation began after `The Axe Murderer` was disqualified for repeatedly head-butting Freitas.
As both teams exchanged blows, Silva was blindsided by a man in a tuxedo. This same individual then delivered a powerful punch, knocking out the former UFC star and reportedly breaking his nose.
The assailant was later identified as Rafael Freitas, Acelino`s son. Although he has since deleted his social media accounts, Rafael released a statement to Brazilian outlet Globo, explaining his motivations.
“When I saw a brawl ignite, instigated by Wanderlei`s team – including his son, coach Andre Dida, and (Fabricio) Werdum – and witnessed them all attacking my father and brothers, I acted in legitimate self-defense,” Rafael stated.
He further clarified, “In the heat of the moment, my sole focus was on defending my family.”
Acelino Freitas Points Blame Towards Wanderlei Silva`s Team for Brawl
Wanderlei Silva`s opponent, Acelino Freitas, corroborated his son`s account of the events at Spaten Fight Night 2.
In a social media video, Freitas directly accused Fabricio Werdum of initiating the chaotic brawl.
“I don`t understand why these people involved Werdum in this event,” Freitas remarked in Portuguese via an Instagram video, referring to the former UFC champion. “This guy consistently causes problems at other people`s events.”
He continued, “Werdum, I am genuinely ashamed. If I were in your shoes, I would be ashamed. You were the one who attacked me; there`s video evidence of you on top of me, trying to assault me. But God`s will prevails.”
