Chael Sonnen criticizes companies that rejected Anderson Silva: 'He didn't even offer'

C. Sonnen (photo) criticizes organizations that rejected A. Silva. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook BellatorMMA

Following the 'soap opera' about the future of Anderson Silva in MMA, Chael Sonnen surprised and came to the Brazilian's defense. Upon noticing the legend being rejected by several organizations, the American criticized the attitude of some promoters, who ruled out negotiating with the 45-year-old veteran.

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“This was a dirty move by some organizations (Bellator, ONE FC, PFL, Bare Knuckles). They turned down a guy they would have loved to tell a while ago. (…) They made it seem like they were above Anderson, refusing a guy who didn't even offer his services. It’s a cruel thing to do,” said Sonnen, in conversation with journalist James Lynch.

Silva's opponent on two occasions (2010, 2012), Chael believes that the Brazilian will not be seen in action again. Retired since 2019, the athlete narrated what he thinks will happen to the world MMA legend.

“I don’t think we’ll see him fight again. The organizations were telling the truth, but there is a better way to deal with it than the way he did it. He should have found a specific opponent, brought it to the fans first, to make sure they approved, and then promoted it”, concluded the former fighter.

Anderson last fought at the end of October, when he was defeated by Uriah Hall, with a hard knockout in the fourth round. The defeat sealed 'Spider's' farewell with the Ultimate gloves. Days later, the Brazilian, who had one more fight on his contract, ended up getting an amicable termination with the company.

Recently, the president of Rizin admitted he was interested in talking to the Brazilian. Showing respect to the former UFC champion, Nobuyuki Sakakibara stated that he will contact 'Spider' and try to promote him at the Japanese event.