Long-reigning UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva will defend his title for the seventh time in four years at UFC 117 on Saturday. After several failed attempts to schedule a title bout against Vitor Belfort he will now face challenger, Chael Sonnen, instead.
UFC 117 tickets for the Oracle Arena in Oakland, Calif. can be purchased online at Ticketmaster. The main card will air live on PPV at 10 p.m.
Silva vs. Sonnen
In spite of Silva's incredibly well-rounded fighting skills his last four performances at UFC 90, UFC 97, UFC 101 and UFC 112 resulted in harsh criticism from UFC President Dana White and fans alike due to Silva's disrespectful and evasive behavior inside the octagon. In fact, White openly stated that he would cut Silva after UFC 117 if he resorts to the same antics in his bout against Sonnen.
Nevertheless, Silva has remained undefeated in the UFC with an impressive record of 11-0 and an overall MMA record of 26-4. Oddly enough Silva's formerly explosive fighting style has turned into some kind of cat-and-mouse game between him and his opponents to the dismay of his fans. Although Silva has the proven ability to end a fight quickly with surgical precision strikes or a submission, he now prefers to drag the inevitable result out by dancing around the octagon and making fun of his opponent. He even left the outcome of two recent fights in the hands of the judges while stating that he was executing his fight plan to a 'T.'
Sonnen, on the other hand, has been earning rave reviews for his recent performances while establishing himself as contender. After missing out on winning the WEC middleweight title due to a loss against Paul Filho in Dec. 2007 he takes this opportunity to dethrone Silva more than seriously. Even more so since this is his second stint in the UFC after getting cut in 2006.
With a record of 24-10-1 he brings even more pro MMA experience to the octagon than Silva but less dominance over his opponents. That should not prevent him from putting the pressure on Silva, however, as he does not mind trading punches. Sonnen also excels at takedowns due to his strong wrestling background, but may not be able to handle Silva's amazing jiu-jitsu skills. If this bout ends up going to decision it could play very well into Sonnen's hands since he has been quite successful at impressing the judges (14 decision-wins).
There is no doubt that Silva is perfectly able to keep his promise of delivering 'his best performance' against Sonnen on Saturday and walk away with yet another win while keeping his belt. But if he decides to play games again he might find himself in the position of the mouse rather than the cat this time around as Sonnen means business and is quite used to being the aggressor in a fight.
Predicted winner: Anderson Silva via KO.
Live stream and replay courtesy of UFC.com
UFC 117: Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen video center
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