Anderson Silva’s undefeated streak, which has lasted for more than five years, includes victories over some of the biggest names in the UFC. Silva has been tested from time to time, but whether against Travis Lutter, Dan Henderson or Chael Sonnen, he has always been able to earn the win. And against big names like Rich Franklin, Chris Leben and Forrest Griffin, those wins came with ease.
Vitor Belfort, the latest challenger for Silva’s Middleweight Championship, represents the most talented striker to challenge for the Spider’s belt. Though his ability to deal with Silva’s elusiveness and well-rounded kickboxing skill remains to be seen, Belfort has fast, powerful hands and could, theoretically, test Anderson Silva’s chin. Working against Belfort are a fairly unimpressive record in “big fight” situations and questions about his ability to remain mentally-tough in the later rounds.
Will Belfort finally be the person to upset Anderson Silva? Or will the world’s top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter again look unbeatable inside the octagon?
The result follows:
Anderson Silva b. Vitor Belfort via KO (kick, then punches) at 3:25 of Round One
*Story of the fight: The two spent the first two minutes feeling the other out–the only strike inside of the first two minutes was a half-hearted leg kick from Vitor. Belfort got the ball rolling with a left hand, and he then took advantage of a missed Silva kick attempt to connect again. Silva rebounded, however, and delivered a straight kick that rocked Belfort’s chin, almost like an uppercut. Belfort crumbled, but as he looked aware for a second, Silva moved in to continue the onslaught with some ground-and-pound. It then became clear Belfort was out, and the referee stopped the action.