Anderson Silva believes Chael Sonnen tarnishes MMA’s image with his antics. | Photo: Sherdog.com
UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva on Friday broke his silence in regards to archrival Chael Sonnen and his call for a rematch, as he appeared on “De Frente Com Gabi,” one of the most important talk shows in Brazil.
Silva did not mince words.
“He does not deserve to fight me,” he said. “I didn’t get where I am by being arrogant or teasing someone. In this business, there is no room for it. The most important thing is he couldn’t beat me. He also got caught doping, which is worse.”
In the interview, scheduled to air publicly on Sunday, Silva also criticized the over-the-top approach Sonnen has embraced in pushing himself and promoting fights. The 36-year-old Brazilian has won a record 14 consecutive bouts inside the Octagon and has held the 185-pound title for more than five years.
“He just tarnishes the image of the sport with his provocative ways,” Silva said. “I do not think he should be in this sport because he doesn’t have any emotional control.”