• UFC 139

Wanderlei wants to match Couture's achievements

ESPN staff
October 24, 2011
Wanderlei Silva insists his body is strong © UFC
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Wanderlei Silva has revealed he intends to fight for another 13 years.

Silva is preparing to take on Cung Le at UFC 139, having stepped in for the injured Vitor Belfort. Having lost three of his last four, the Brazilian knows he needs a victory to stave off retirement.

However, far from considering his retirement plans, Wanderlei insists his body is fine. The belief in most MMA circles is that his chin has gone, but the middleweight is adamant he wants to match Randy Couture's longevity in the sport.

"I'm just back from the doctors, and he made all the checks, and the doctor told me I can fight 20 more years!" Silva told MMA Heat. "I'm really healthy you know, and I'm trying to pass Couture. Couture stopped at 48, I'm 35."

As for Cung Le, owner of seven MMA wins from eight fights, Silva admits he has to watch out for the 39-year-old's leg kicks.

"You know he's a really good opponent. I've studied his game, and I think he has the best kicks in MMA," Silva said. "I started training the difference of the kickings. I think he's a great opponent. I hope to give a great show for the fans in San Jose and I hope to make everyone happy there and around the world."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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