Wanderlei Silva makes himself available for a rematch with Popó and raises his voice.

Wand is an MMA legend. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/BellatorMMA

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The possibility of a rematch between Wanderlei Silva and Popó has gained momentum again in recent days. In a statement on social media, the MMA legend affirmed that he continues to train at a high level and dispelled any doubts about his desire to have another fight with the boxer, this time proposing a change of rules.

In a post on his Instagram profile, 'Wand' indicated that, in addition to being physically prepared, he welcomes a rematch against the four-time world boxing champion. However, Wanderlei made it clear that he wants to take the duel to MMA, a different scenario from their first encounter, which took place in boxing. 'The Mad Dog' issued the challenge and demanded a response from his rival.

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"That's it, folks. I'm continuing as always, training. I'm in great physical shape, working hard every day, already thinking about the possibility of a rematch against Acelino (Popó)."

Then people ask: 'Wanderlei, would it be fair for you to face him in MMA?'. I return the question: would it be fair for people who aren't even fighters to face him in boxing, where he is an expert?

If Popó doesn't accept the challenge, he'll be just as cowardly as those amateur opponents he's faced so far. They aren't real fighters, but they went there and accepted. Why? Because they have courage. Courage that Popó hasn't shown yet, since he hasn't answered whether he'll fight me in MMA or not.

I've boxed with you before, and I can say this with certainty: you didn't even come close to knocking me down. Lightweight punch. And I'm sure that if we had another boxing match, I would win.

"But now I want to see if you have the courage to fight me in MMA. So, Popó? Are you going to accept or are you going to run away?", said Wanderlei Silva on Instagram.

 

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A post shared by Wanderlei Silva (@wandfc)

Popó does not rule out a rematch against Wanderlei Silva.

Recently, before 'Wand's' comment, Acelino Popó gave an interview to 'GE' and spoke about the possibility of meeting him again in the ring. The difference is that the boxer did not make it clear whether he would be willing to have a rematch in MMA, a challenge that was proposed by the Curitiba native.

"It was just publicity. He ( Wanderlei Silva ) never had anything concrete. But if he wants a rematch, I'll give it to him, now be a man and fight like a man," Popó told 'GE'.

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