• UFC 132

Machida doesn't believe it's the end for Wanderlei

ESPN staff
July 5, 2011
Wanderlei Silva has suffered knockouts to Chris Leben, Mirko Cro Cop, Rampage Jackson and Dan Henderson in his last eight fights © Getty Images
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Lyoto Machida has offered words of hope to fellow Brazilian Wanderlei Silva, claiming the Axe Murderer still has a future in MMA.

Like everybody else, Machida watched as Wanderlei suffered a knockout defeat to Chris Leben at UFC 132, extending his recent record to six losses in eight fights.

Silva proved he still has the reactions and skill to land the first blow, as he did against Leben, but the punch resistance appears to have left him, with the Crippler becoming the fourth man in eight bouts to turn out Wanderlei's lights.

Middleweight rival Chael Sonnen was vocal in his belief, post-fight, that Wanderlei should retire, insisting he would not even want to fight the veteran anymore.

UFC president Dana White also stated in a press-conference that he believes Silva has reached the end of the road. White hinted he would attempt to "Chuck Liddell" Silva into retirement, meaning he would try to stop the Brazilian suffering any more damage.

Machida has a contrasting view though, pointing out that MMA is full of characters who have hit back after being written off, just like Tito Ortiz did against Ryan Bader on Saturday.

"It's a tough situation to talk about, but Wanderlei has a lot of heart and gas, which are very important," Machida told Tatame.

"I don't believe it's the end, if he wants to keep going he still has a lot of things to do. He's experienced, and still has time to fight.

"If he believes it's time to stop, that he won't be able to fight in a high level again, it's his decision, but that is something that happens is any career and can be reversed."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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