One of the biggest names in the history of MMA, Anderson Silva he once again made headlines after a gala performance in his victory over Julio César Chávez Jr., last weekend, under boxing rules. Directly responsible for the 46-year-old Brazilian's victory, 'Spider' coach, Luiz Dórea, spoke exclusively to SUPER LUTAS YouTube channel about the pupil's performance in the 'noble art'. In the chat, the coach celebrated the positive result, asked for respect and projected the São Paulo native's future in the sport.
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Last Saturday (19), Anderson went to Mexico to test himself against a former world boxing champion. The clash marked Silva's first appearance since leaving the UFC at the end of 2020.
Surprise? None of that
Anderson's return to action was awaited by fans of the MMA legend, who wanted to see what the athlete's performance would be like against a big name in the 'noble art'. The Brazilian, however, exceeded expectations and put on a real show against Chávez. The Brazilian's performance, however, did not surprise Dórea, who has worked with the former UFC champion for over 18 years.
“I was very happy, but not surprised. I have worked with Anderson for 18 years. He has a skill above normal. I already put Anderson to fight in professional boxing, in Bahia, he won by knockout. (…) He IS complete, but he has above-average boxing,” said the coach.
Julio César: perfect marriage
According to Dórea, Silva communicated the negotiations to face the Mexican at the beginning of 2021. Knowing the former world boxing champion, Dórea stated that he immediately welcomed the marriage of styles. The coach then analyzed the confrontation, which could favor the Brazilian.
“He informed me about the fight about four months away. (…) The guy plays 'cas a' a lot with us. It's a stationary, fixed game, like Mexican boxing, walking forward, but it receives a lot of straight blows. Moving to the sides, keeping your distance, would be a way to neutralize the Mexican's actions. I said: 'Take this fight”, revealed Luiz.
Behind the scenes of the confrontation
Willing to test himself outside of MMA, the sport that made him famous worldwide in martial arts, 'Spider' ignored his 46 years and proved that he still has what it takes to perform at a high level. Present at the Brazilian's preparation, Dórea spoke about the positive atmosphere behind the scenes of the clash.
“(Silva) was very happy, content. It was always a dream of ours for him to box professionally. I always had this desire with him, with (Júnior) Cigano and with the Rogério Minotouro. I have been working with them for many years. (…) Anderson always wanted to box, ever since he was in the UFC and wanted to fight Roy Jones (Jr). At the time, there was no opportunity. Now, he left the UFC, the offers started to arrive and he was very happy. I looked at him and (said): 'I'm going to win, master'. This confidence is there every moment,” he said.
Respect the legend
Although Anderson did not achieve victories in his last years of MMA, one must respect what the Brazilian represents for martial arts. After a great personal achievement for the legend, Dórea demanded recognition for his pupil, who, at 46 years old, overtook a big name in boxing.
“A legend has to be respected. What Anderson did in MMA is unlikely to be surpassed by anyone. It won't be a defeat or two that will erase it. (…) Athletes like Anderson might appear every 100 years. I've been in the sport for over 100 years and I know quality. It can never be underestimated,” he stated.
upcoming appointments
After feeling the taste of victory again, anyone who thinks the Brazilian is considering retirement is mistaken. A born competitor, the São Paulo native wants to continue making presentations and, according to Luiz, the proposals increased after the triumph of 'Spider'.
“We have many proposals. They had them before the victory and now we have others. (…) At first, Anderson's thought is to rest, then we'll see what he's going to do. He will give us much more joy in boxing. He is 'tied up'. (…) A wonderful energy. He is very happy. He made Chávez Jr. look small,” he concluded.
The confrontation between Silva and Julio César took place at the Jalisco Stadium, in Guadalajara. At the end of the proposed eight rounds, Anderson was declared the winner in a split decision.
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