Acelino Freitas, the opponent of MMA icon Wanderlei Silva, has issued an apology regarding his involvement in the post-fight altercation that resulted in Silva being knocked unconscious.
Despite being 44 pounds lighter than MMA legend Silva, the two-time former boxing world champion, Freitas, dominated the match. Silva, a former PRIDE champion, eventually resorted to foul play, receiving point deductions for headbutting.
Chaos erupted in the ring when Silva was disqualified in the fourth round, leading to a full-scale brawl involving members of both fighters` entourages. Tragically, the altercation culminated with one of Freitas` sons striking the MMA star, rendering him unconscious and necessitating a hospital visit for the 49-year-old veteran.
Acelino Freitas Issues Apology Over Brawl Following Wanderlei Silva Fight
Following the widely publicized brawl involving Wanderlei Silva, Acelino `Popo` Freitas used social media to express his sentiments. Millions viewed his initial video on Instagram after the incident, where he issued a comprehensive and profuse apology to his opponent, despite the contentious and unpleasant nature of their encounter.
“Wanderlei was disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct and illegal, anti-sport strikes in the ring, where it was just the two of us,” Popo stated. “Prior to that, he had already landed numerous blows in every round we fought. He lacked the emotional composure necessary for a clean boxing match and to see it through to the end. The outcome is unequivocal: the Spaten Fight Night belt belongs to me!”
However, he then adopted a more serious tone, continuing:
“I once again express my regret for the events that transpired after the match, and I reaffirm all my statements of condemnation and previous comments refuting any attempts by the opposing team to manipulate information. Nevertheless, boxing transcends such incidents: respect, discipline, and truth will invariably triumph. Thank you all for your support. This victory is ours!”
