Anderson Silva has finally broken his silence following his removal from this month’s UFC Shanghai card.
‘The Spider’ was long considered the greatest middleweight, if not the greatest fighter, of all time. Now, following the second drug test failure of his storied career, Anderson Silva’s legacy is in shambles. Late Tuesday (or early Wednesday, depending on your locale), Silva released a statement regarding the failure and his future.
While he did not address being flagged by USADA (the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, which runs the UFC’s anti-doping program) head on, Silva did thank fans for their support — and stated unequivocally that he was not done fighting.
Obviously, I think everything is part of a process of evolution. With each passing day I can learn more about who I am. I’m here to thank all my fans, especially my coaches and all the contributors for this long journey. I can’t express my feelings and how sad I am. Because we all invest love, passion and time in this camp. I don’t know exactly the plans of God for me. But anyway, I can only thank him and all of you. For the love and affection. Nothing is more gratifying at this moment than having you by my side. I will not give up much less stop doing what I love, not because of fame or money, it’s because I love to fight. So no matter what happens from now on, nothing changes, my plans are the same. Nothing has changed. A big kiss for everyone and see you soon.
As a repeat offender following a 2015 drug test failure the middleweight later blamed on Thai sexual performance pills, Silva could be looking at a multi-year suspension. At 42, it’s difficult to see how the former middleweight champion returns from that. It will be months before the legal process plays out, however. The immediate impact is the loss of Silva from the UFC Shanghai card. Michael Bisping has since stepped in to take his place.
Thanks for all your support! A big kiss for everyone and see you soon. pic.twitter.com/nvoZTJkwct
— Anderson Silva (@SpiderAnderson) November 15, 2017
