By UFC Hall of Famer Anderson Silva is set to face longtime rival Chael Sonnen in a boxing match on June 15 in São Paulo, Brazil. This bout marks a significant return to the ring for Silva and the boxing debut for Sonnen, rekindling one of the most famous rivalries in mixed martial arts history.
The Fight Details
- Date: June 15, 2024
- Location: São Paulo, Brazil
- Rounds: Five, two-minute rounds
- Weight Class: 216 pounds
Background
Anderson Silva: Silva, a former UFC middleweight champion, is renowned for his dominant reign in the UFC. He stopped fighting in MMA in 2020 but transitioned to boxing, where he has had notable success. Silva’s boxing record includes victories over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Tito Ortiz in 2021, and a loss to YouTube star Jake Paul in 2022. This bout will be Silva’s final fight in Brazil, adding emotional significance to the event.
Chael Sonnen: Sonnen, known for his brash personality and wrestling prowess, will be making his professional boxing debut. He retired from MMA in 2019 but remains a prominent figure in combat sports through his commentary and analysis. Sonnen and Silva’s previous encounters in the UFC were marked by intense rivalry and memorable moments, with Silva winning both fights.
The Rivalry
The Silva-Sonnen rivalry is one of the most storied in UFC history. Their first fight at UFC 117 in August 2010 is especially legendary. Sonnen dominated Silva for most of the bout, but Silva secured a dramatic victory with a triangle armbar submission in the final round. This fight will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s fight wing shortly after their boxing match.
Their second bout at UFC 148 in July 2012 saw Silva again emerge victorious, this time by TKO in the second round. Both fights were characterized by Sonnen’s relentless trash-talking and Silva’s remarkable resilience and skill.
Significance of the Fight
For Silva, this fight represents a chance to close his combat sports career on a high note in his home country. For Sonnen, it’s an opportunity to step into the boxing ring for the first time and reignite a historic rivalry. The fight promises to be a significant event for both fighters and their fans, offering a blend of nostalgia and fresh competition.
As they prepare to face off once more, the sports world will be watching to see how this chapter of their rivalry unfolds.
