UFC 20th anniversary party could feature Wanderlei Silva vs Chael Sonnen

W. Silva (left) could face C. Sonnen (right) in November. Photo: MMA Press Production (Josh Hedges/UFC)

With the official announcement of the fights between Vitor belfort e Dan Henderson and most recently Lyoto Machida and Tim Kennedy, future combat options for Chael Sonnen reduced considerably in about 24 hours. Although, Wanderlei Silva, the North American loudmouth's main target, remains “available” and the UFC's intention is to schedule the fight for edition 167, in November, which marks the organization's twentieth anniversary. The plan was revealed after a request made in an unusual way by Sonnen.

“Dana (White), it's no secret that I'm the biggest attraction and highest paid athlete in the UFC, and the only person who comes close to rivaling me is Georges St-Pierre. The way I see it, in November, when he faces John hendricks live in Las Vegas, he doesn't have a co-main event. I ask you to set me against Wanderlei Silva on this card. I ask, Dana White, please do this fight”, pleaded the loudmouth, in a surprise appearance during an interview with Dana White on North American TV.

Apparently, Sonnen's request pleased the Ultimate president, who responded positively. "I think that Wanderlei Silva It's out until the beginning of the year. So I'm not sure if he's healthy, but if he's healthy, I'll definitely do this fight, and I'll definitely make it the co-main event,” said the manager.

UFC 167 takes place on November 16th, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas (USA). In the main fight of the night, the Canadian Georges St Pierre puts the welterweight belt on the line against the American John hendricks. As it is closest to the date, the event was chosen to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first edition of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, held on November 12, 1993.