UFC legend Wanderlei Silva`s highly anticipated return to the ring after a seven-year hiatus turned into a complete debacle, culminating in a disqualification and a post-fight knockout during a chaotic brawl.
The 48-year-old Silva, whose last professional bout was a knockout loss to Quinton `Rampage` Jackson in September 2018, made his comeback at Spaten Fight Night 2. He faced former two-time world boxing champion Acelino Freitas (41-2) in an exhibition match. Despite `The Axe Murderer` having a significant 44-pound weight advantage, it proved insufficient against the seasoned boxer, who largely dominated the initial rounds.
The Disqualification and Post-Fight Melee
As the fight progressed, Silva reportedly resorted to illegal tactics in an attempt to turn the tide. He was penalized two points for repeatedly delivering headbutts before ultimately being disqualified by the referee at 1:34 of the fourth round.
The controversy didn`t end with the stoppage. Immediately after the fight, pandemonium erupted in the ring as members from both teams engaged in a furious exchange of punches. Amidst the chaos, Wanderlei Silva was caught by a powerful hook from an unidentified individual, which rendered him unconscious on the canvas.
The Unfulfilled Rematch Against Vitor Belfort
Originally, Silva was scheduled to face his old rival, Vitor Belfort, at Spaten Fight Night 2. Belfort famously knocked Silva out in just 44 seconds during their MMA clash at UFC Brazil in 1998. However, `The Axe Murderer` was denied his chance at revenge when Belfort withdrew from the rematch, citing two concussions sustained in training. Silva, however, publicly expressed skepticism regarding Belfort`s claims.
At a recent press conference, Silva voiced his disappointment, emphasizing the critical role of mental fortitude for an athlete. He urged Belfort to embody the virtues he often espouses—strength, perseverance, and optimism—and even suggested seeking psychological assistance.
“He needs to do what he’s always talking about. He’s always talking about strength, perseverance, optimism, and then does that. That shows how important the mental part is for the athlete. An athlete needs to be confident, to believe in himself. He must know what he can do. He should stand in front of the mirror and say, ‘I’m a lion! I’m a lion!’ Anything, right? Hire a psychologist, do therapy, right? But this fight is scheduled for next year. Like I said, I would be here on the 27th. I’m here. I’ll be here next time, too. And that time, I hope he doesn’t run.”
Silva reaffirmed his commitment to fighting next year, expressing hope that Belfort would not “run” from the encounter this time.
