Anderson (left) and Sonnen (right) faced each other twice, with two victories for the Brazilian. Photo: Disclosure
Chael Sonnen is a character that often surprises the MMA community. Shortly after announce his retirement from the sport, the North American posted on his official page on Facebook, a long farewell text, in which he expresses gratitude to coaches and friends.
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The surprise is the words addressed to Anderson Silva, with whom he had an intense rivalry a few years ago. Sonnen stated that, without the Brazilian, he would not have gotten this far in his career, and classified the “Spider” as the most important opponent he has ever faced.
“I also want to thank the most important opponent I've ever had. I couldn't have made it this far without my dance partner, and that's obviously you, Anderson Silva. Thanks for the opportunity. Thank you for the memories, and thank you for the invitation to the barbecue, even though I didn't accept it”, commented the North American.
Sonnen and Anderson faced each other twice, in 2010 and 2012, with both victories going to the Brazilian. At the time, the American drew attention due to the various provocations made to the then UFC middleweight champion.
In one of them, he even said that he would force Silva's wife to prepare him a rare steak. After his second victory over Sonnen, Anderson responded to the provocation, inviting the American to a barbecue at his home. The moment was not forgotten by Sonnen in his farewell text.
Check out the text written by Sonnen:
“I want to take this opportunity to officially announce my retirement from MMA. I had a lot of fun. I want to thank Roy Pittman, Dave Sandal, my coach Clayton Hires. These guys taught me how to fight and how to persevere. They stood by me through good times and bad.
I want to thank FOX (North American broadcaster) and the UFC leadership. I want to thank a man named Bill Brady who gave me a second chance. He's a member of the Nevada Athletic Commission and he believed in me at a time when I really needed it. I owe him my second chance at my career. I'm proud to call him a friend.
I also want to thank the most important opponent I've ever had. I couldn't have made it this far without my dance partner, and that's obviously you, Anderson Silva. Thanks for the opportunity. Thanks for the memories, and thanks for the invite to the barbecue, even though I didn’t accept.”
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