Brunson was full of praise for 'Spider'. (Photo: Getty Images)
About to have the biggest fight of his career, Derek Brunson opted for respect when commenting on the duel against Anderson Silva, who he faces this Saturday, the 11th, at UFC 208, in Brooklyn (USA). Despite mentioning that the “Spider” no longer has the explosiveness and speed of yesteryear, Brunson admits that his rival is still a real threat to any opponent he may face.
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"Anderson Silva it's very dangerous. He's probably the most dangerous guy in MMA. Anderson is a little older, but I don't think that has any bearing on how dangerous he is. He may have lost a little strength and speed, but he still has an excellent technique and all the skills that made him this far”, declared the fighter, in an interview with the website 'Combate.com'.
When asked about the difference in experience in the octagon – Brunson started his career in 2010, while Anderson has been fighting professionally since 1997 – the American guarantees that this does not influence anything, on the contrary. According to Derek, facing the former middleweight champion was always part of his plans.
“Yes, when I started fighting, he was one of the guys I looked to for inspiration. I have always worked very competently for so long that I always imagined a scenario in which I would face the Anderson Silva one day. (…) It’s very exciting. I'll be able to go in there and show my skills against a guy who's been at the top for so long. It's great to be able to face a guy like that”, declared Brunson, who concluded by saying that he doesn't see Anderson retiring after the duel between them, even if the Brazilian loses.
“I think Anderson still has more fights in his career. A lot of people don't see him retiring, but if that happens, I would understand why. Like I said, he's been losing speed and strength, but he's still one of the best guys in the division and still has the skills to keep fighting. I think he will keep fighting,” he concluded.
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