Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen went the space in an exhibition boxing match this previous weekend in Brazil, and “The Spider” stated he determined to not win the match as a “tribute” to their historical past.

Silva and Sonnen fought twice for the UFC middleweight championship in two of essentially the most watched MMA clashes of all time, each ending with Silva because the winner. The duo headlined Spaten Combat Night time on June 15, which was billed as Silva’s remaining bout on Brazilian soil.

Silva instructed the media after the lackluster match that knockouts weren’t allowed because it was an exhibition, and took to social media Friday to elaborate on his efficiency.

“I do know some stated the match ought to have been extra aggressive, however every struggle has its personal dynamic,” Silva wrote in Portuguese. “I selected to be within the ring with an opponent so necessary in my historical past. I may have fought to win, however I most well-liked to do that a tribute to our historical past, and that’s why I didn’t win the belt.”

“We win in some ways in life, he continued, “and being beside you all that evening was the most important victory of all. It was unimaginable to say goodbye to the Brazilian rings with a lot love. Love you.”

A ceremonial belt was offered Wednesday throughout a face-off in Sao Paulo, however neither fighter took it dwelling.

Silva stated after the Sonnen match that he’s presently in talks to compete in an expert boxing match in Dubai later this 12 months, however stated he wasn’t allowed to disclose the opponent.

The UFC Corridor of Famer has gained two of three professional boxing bouts since parting methods with the UFC in 2020, defeating Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Tito Ortiz earlier than dropping to Jake Paul, after which going the space in boxing exhibitions with Sonnen and Bruno Azeredo.