A. Silva is the biggest name in the history of Brazilian MMA. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Known for having already negotiated with several MMA legends and veterans to perform at Bellator, the company's president, Scott Coker, surprised when dealing with one of the biggest names in the sport. Talking about Anderson Silva, who recently had his last fight for the UFC, the 'big boss' showed respect, but said he has no interest in having 'Spider' on his squad.
See too
“I have a lot of respect for him (Anderson). He was definitely one of the best fighters in mixed martial arts. I haven't really thought about it, but I think I'm happy with how our athletes have been developed and with the fighters we have now. That’s what I have to say,” said Coker, at a press conference.
Over the years, Scott has become known for not missing opportunities to allow more experienced athletes to extend their careers with Bellator gloves for a few more years. Wanderlei Silva, Chael Sonnen, Fedor Emelianenko, Roy Nelson e Lyoto Machida are some of the examples.
Recently, however, Coker has shown signs that his way of thinking may be changing. The president released some of his veterans and started betting on promises in the sport, who could produce great fighters in the future.
About Anderson, the Brazilian legend left Ultimate after a tough defeat to Uriah Hall, at the end of October. In the confrontation, the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9kg) started the fight well, but ended up falling victim to his opponent's physical strength, losing by knockout in the fourth round.
If, on the one hand, Scott has no interest in counting on Silva, the same can be said about the Brazilian at the moment. One day after the setback for Hall, Anderson, on social media, admitted that he is officially retired from MMA.
Comments