Anderson Silva has confirmed what has been something of an open secret for a while now: his fight at UFC Vegas 12 later this month will be his last.
The 45-year old Brazilian is the UFC’s former middleweight champion and one of its most decorated, storied athletes. From 2006 to 2012, Silva put together an unparalleled run, dominating the promotion’s 185lb weight class. And that was after posting an early-career record of 17-4 in PRIDE, Cage Rage, and other promotions.
A front kick KO of Vitor Belfort. His memorable feud with Chael Sonnen. Ten successful title defenses. “The Spider” became one of the faces of the UFC, and MMA as a whole, during his peak, in an important growth period. He’s considered by many to be one of the greatest ever.
All good things must come to an end. Speaking to MMA Junkie, Silva (34-10, 1NC) has confirmed that his October 31 fight against Uriah Hall will be his swan song.
“This is the last fight,” Silva told the website. “For sure, this is the last fight. Probably. I love the sport. I’ve prepared my mind for this. I’ve prepared for fight my entire life, but yes, this is my last fight in UFC.”
Well, he did slip a “probably” in there. Still, it seems as if Silva is determined that this will be his final fight. Revealing what he’d miss the most, the middleweight legend said it would actually be the training. “This I think is most important and I feel sad because I don’t have this anymore. This is the last one.”
UFC Vegas 12 takes place October 31 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.
