Rafael Freitas in an interview with TV Globo (Photo: Reproduction/Globo)
Responsible for the punch that knocked Wanderlei Silva to the canvas in a general brawl at Spaten Fight Night 2, last Saturday (27), Rafael Freitas, son of Acelino 'Popó' Freitas, spoke for the first time about the episode. In an interview with the program Fantástico , on TV Globo, the young man claimed to have acted in self-defense when intervening in the confusion and apologized to the former MMA fighter.
"When I realized it, a massive riot broke out, started by Wanderlei's team, his son, coach André Dida, and Werdum. When I saw them all attacking my father and brothers, I acted in self-defense. In the heat of the moment, I only thought about defending myself and my family," Rafael explained.
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In another section, Popó's son tried to apologize directly to the former PRIDE champion.
"I want to apologize to Wanderlei and his entire family for everything he did for his sport. And (to say) that it wasn't my intention," he added.
The principle of self-defense is provided for in article 25 of the Brazilian Penal Code, which defines it as “whoever, using the necessary means in moderation, repels an unjust aggression, current or imminent, against their own rights or those of others”.
On Sunday, before returning to Curitiba, Wanderlei Silva posted a video on his social media showing the injuries to his face after the attack. Meanwhile, the former fighter's lawyer, Claudio Dalledone, told the Combate website that Rafael could face legal action and even be charged with attempted murder.
After the blow, Wanderlei was knocked unconscious in the ring, but regained consciousness and was taken to São Luiz Hospital in São Paulo, where he remained for about four hours. After tests, he was discharged early Sunday morning.
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