Anderson Silva's defeat divides opinions among UFC athletes

With the victory over A. Silva (left), C. Weidman (right) interrupted the Brazilian's 17-game winning streak. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC

As happened among fans and the specialized press, the defeat of Anderson Silva for Chris Weidman at UFC 162, which cost him the middleweight belt, he divided opinions among big names in MMA. After the event, expressions of anger at the former champion's attitude to messages of support and respect for the Brazilian appeared on social media.

DID YOU LOSE THE FIGHT?: Watch the video of Anderson Silva vs Chris Weidman

One of the first to speak out was Wanderlei Silva. "For what? You can’t play there, it’s kill or be killed!”, said the former PRIDE champion. In the same vein as Wand, Luke Rockhold also commented on the defeat. “Arrogance finally caught up with him,” published the last holder of the Strikeforce middleweight belt. Dan Henderson also talked about presumption, but added a patriotic component to his words. “Congratulations to Weidman, this is the way to show how to put arrogance to bed. Always supporting the wrestlers! United States, baby!” said the veteran.

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At the opposite extreme, there were those who were shocked by what had happened and also those who came to the Brazilian's defense. “He is human after all,” wrote Yves Jabouin. “Don't boo Anderson Silva. The guy has an incredible legacy and reached a higher level than anyone”, said female bantamweight Julie Kedzie.

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Among the most restrained, the following stood out: Demian Maia e Kenny Florian. While the Brazilian adopted an analytical stance, congratulating Weidman and stating that the Spider remains the best pound-for-pound in the world, Florian raised a hypothesis. “I wouldn't believe in a million years that Anderson would lose the fight, but I believe he's happy to have the immense pressure off his shoulders. The low guard is what Silva has often used to frustrate his opponents and use as bait for a knockout. He failed this time. Same Anderson Silva You can't always keep your hands down. Congratulations Weidman for winning, but Silva is still the best who has ever fought in the UFC”, said the former fighter and now the organization's official commentator.

SEE TOO: Belfort calls for fight against Weidman: 'Now it's my turn'

Last Saturday (6), Anderson Silva was knocked out, for the first time in his career, by Chris Weidman, in the second round of the main fight of UFC 162, in Las Vegas (USA). With the defeat, Spider lost the Ultimate middleweight title, which he had held since 2006. The new champion Weidman remains with his perfect record: ten wins in ten fights.