Hospitalized, Popó reveals the need for surgery and criticizes Wanderlei Silva and his team after a fight

Popó revealed that he will undergo surgery after a fight at Spaten Fight Night (Photo: Reproduction)

Two days after the all-out brawl that marked his victory over Wanderlei Silva No. Spaten Fight Night 2, in São Paulo, Acelino “Popó” Freitas updated his health status. The four-time world boxing champion revealed, in a post on social media, that he is hospitalized in Salvador and will need to undergo a surgical procedure this Monday (29). The Bahian did not reveal the nature of the surgery, but assured that the moment does not erase the conquest of the belt.

"I'm in Salvador. In the hospital. Admitted. Under observation. Tomorrow I'll undergo surgery. As soon as possible, I'll share more details with you all. What I'd like to be doing right now is, without a doubt, celebrating the victory! We took the Spaten Fight Night belt, and nothing that happened will overshadow this epic moment for boxing and Brazilian sport," wrote Popó.

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In the message, Popó also responded to criticism that he and his team are responsible for the start of the brawl. The former champion stated that there was no premeditation on his part or that of his family and directed the accusations at the rival team.

"Regarding the audio and video you've been watching, don't let them be manipulated. Never, under any circumstances, would my team or I premeditate trouble after the fight. I've been boxing for decades, with the principles of the noble art naturally ingrained in my life... and I've never been involved in any of this, much less my team and children! They're trying to pin on us the most common conduct in the history of those involved on the opposing team," he defended himself.

Finally, Popó asked for prayers for the procedure and criticized the team's stance. Wanderlei SIlvaHe said he was confident in his recovery and assured that he would return to fight against opponents who respect boxing.

"May God watch over me during this medical procedure! And may I soon be fully recovered from the brutality of those who should have been there to absorb and resolve any disagreements—and not the other way around. Everything passes! I'm convinced I'll come back even stronger! And fighting with high-level people who respect boxing, just as I do," he concluded.