URGENT UPDATE: Mixed martial arts legend Wanderlei Silva was knocked out and suffered a fractured nose during a chaotic postfight brawl on July 15, 2023, in São Paulo, Brazil. The incident unfolded immediately after Silva’s exhibition boxing match against Acelino Freitas, where he was disqualified in the fourth round for throwing illegal headbutts.
Silva, aged 49, was struck by a punch from Rafael Freitas, the son of his opponent, as tensions escalated between both fighters’ camps. The brutal encounter left Silva crumpled on the canvas, requiring immediate medical attention. His cornerman, former UFC champion Fabricio Werdum, confirmed on social media that Silva received treatment for a fractured nose and facial stitches before being released from the hospital.
Werdum expressed outrage over the attack, stating,
“The images don’t lie. It was so evil for that guy to punch Wanderlei. He punched the back of the head of Wanderlei. I don’t know if it landed clean, but it could have been something very serious.”
Tensions flared after the referee disqualified Silva for three headbutts during the match. Acelino Freitas took to social media to blame Werdum for inciting the brawl, saying,
“When the fight ended, the referee disqualified Wanderlei for the three headbutts, his coach went after me and punched me. Unfortunately, Werdum cowardly entered the ring with your son and went all over everybody. And I saw that someone also punched you.”
The Brazilian National Boxing Council and the promotion, Spaten Fight Night, have yet to announce any disciplinary actions following this violent episode. Spaten Fight Night released a statement emphasizing that the events “do not represent its values of sportsmanship and respect to the rules.”
This exhibition marked Silva’s first boxing match since his MMA retirement in 2018. Originally scheduled to face fellow MMA icon Vitor Belfort, Silva had to adjust as Belfort withdrew less than a month prior, with Freitas stepping in on short notice. The bout was set for eight rounds, with Silva weighing in a staggering 44 pounds heavier than Freitas.
Fans and followers are left reeling from the shocking turn of events. The violent postfight brawl highlights the intense emotions and rivalries still present in combat sports. As the situation unfolds, many are questioning the future of both fighters and the potential repercussions from the boxing authorities. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
