During the UFC 286 event in London, it was announced that a tribute would be paid to one of the greatest fighters of all time. Former Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight champion Anderson Silva, also known as ‘Spider’, will be honored in the hall of fame created by the event.
For those who don’t remember, it’s worth remembering that the Brazilian fighter was the absolute champion between 2006 and 2013 in the category up to 84 kg. Silva has defended the middleweight title ten times. He faced some big names and secured the belt against fighters such as Chael Sonnen, Dan Henderson, Vitor Belfort and Rich Franklin.
But our ‘Spider’ didn’t just shine in this category, he was also successful in the top category, where he was champion three times, fighting Stephen Bonnar, Forrest Griffin and James Irvin.
Anderson Silva is one of the greatest athletes of all time. His 16-fight winning streak in the UFC, 10 successful title defenses and almost seven years as middleweight champion was one of the most remarkable things I’ve ever seen in professional sport. He’s a true artist inside the octagon, and it will be an honor to induct him into the UFC Hall of Fame.
said Dana White.
In addition to the UFC, Anderson Silva has also shone in other tournaments, such as Shooto in Japan and Cage in England.
But unfortunately in 2020 fans had to see the farewell of their idol, following Anderson Silva’s retirement from MMA. The good news is that since then he has been training in boxing and has already taken part in some fights.
The long-awaited UFC Hall of Fame awards ceremony will take place in Las Vegas in July, with the illustrious participation of Brazilian José Aldo, who will also be honored.