Poatan gets angry when asked about the fight between Popó and Wanderlei Silva: 'Don't ask that question again'

Poatan on an international trip. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/Alexpoatanpereira

On the eve of competing for the light heavyweight belt at UFC 320, Alex Poatán didn't like being involved in matters outside the Octagon. During a video posted on his official YouTube channel, the Brazilian champion expressed irritation when asked about the widespread confusion between Popó Freitas and Wanderlei Silva, at Spaten Fight Night 2, held last Saturday (27).

Without hiding his discomfort, Poatan criticized the tone of the questions and the focus given by the press and the public to the controversial episode involving the sport's veterans.

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"What did I think? I don't think anything. What am I going to think? I see a lot of people trying to get views, engagement, and give their opinions. Anyone who knows me knows I don't talk about anyone. Take those guys who fought... They've definitely done something positive, helped people, made donations. No one writes about it. It won't get any views. So please, don't ask that question anymore," Poatan said.

The former light heavyweight champion still avoided going into details about what happened, making it clear that he prefers to focus on what happens inside the octagon. Poatan faces Magomed Ankalayev next Saturday (4), in the main fight of UFC 320, in a contest valid for the title in the up to 93kg category.

Poatan was asked about the Popó x Wand feud and spoke out. pic.twitter.com/k85HNm4NVq

— MMA Melotto (@MMAmelotto) September 29, 2025

Confusion between Popó and Wanderlei Silva

The fight between Popó and Wanderlei was a boxing exhibition, scheduled for eight rounds, but was ended after Wanderlei was disqualified for repeated headbutts—an illegal move in the sport. The situation got out of hand when members of both teams invaded the ring, sparking a brawl.

In the commotion, Wanderlei was hit by a punch—identified as coming from Rafael Freitas, Popó's son—and briefly passed out. The former UFC fighter was taken to the hospital with a broken nose and cuts to his face. Popó was also injured in the melee and required hand surgery. He was discharged on Tuesday (30).