Report: Anderson Silva to debut at light heavyweight during July 19 Spike TV special
June 17, 2008 by Sam Caplan
Filed under , , Rachelle Leah
Plans remain in motion for a live UFC special on Spike TV scheduled for July 19. According to Ariel Helwani of MMARated.com, the main event for the show will feature the debut of UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva at light heavyweight.The site is reporting that Silva’s debut at 205 pounds will come against James Irvin.
Sherdog.com reported on Monday that a light heavyweight main event consisting of Wanderlei Silva vs. Brandon Vera had been on the table. However, recent indications are that Silva declined the bout because it was on such short notice.
The UFC is believed to be looking to run a show on such short notice as a way to counter-program Affliction’s inaugural MMA show the same night on pay-per-view.
Historic! Andersen Silva will prove to every non-believers that he is the most dominating fighter there ever was and will be in the UFC. He will destroy Irvin and beat every light heavy weight contender in the division to become the LH Champ. Silva never under-estimate his opponents and has a second to non passion to destroy and win, no fighter currently has this menacing mentality! Beside the LH Division currently sucks, he will jolt it with life and excitement! It’s interesting and a true testament to Silva’s will how a lower weight champ has to fight a contender or two before a title shot, boxers (champs) can be promoted to fight higher or lower weight division champions. Dana is taking a risky route, gaining to lose what might well be his most valuable card (revenue generating). Luckily we are talking about Andersen Silva not the chump champ like Rampage who just gave up his title due to the lack of hunger! Chuck Liddell had this Hunger when he reign and now it will be Andersen Silva’s time to rule!!
Anderson Silva is a pro, a real FIGHTER. He comes from the best camp in MMA. He has fought 205 before in Pride. Props to Silva for steppin up on behalf of Dana and the F.Brothers. Props to Silva for fighting for that money. Aye Dana I hope you cash him out $500,000 per fight. You should hire me as an advisor.
silva walks around at 225 so this could be a great fight but it’s also scary for him cause he has lost at 205 befor in pride and was tapped quick but i am looking forward to this fight
@#53 Anderson Silva does not walk around at 225 right now. There is no way he’s cutting forty pounds every time he fights, lol. If he fought at 205 regularly still sure, but i doubt he could bulk back up to his old fighting weight this quickly. I’m betting we see an Anderson Silva that is basically just not having to cut weight.