Vitor Belfort and Anderson Silva were side by side once again at a press conference promoting UFC 126, which will take place next Saturday in Las Vegas. More experienced and thirty-three years old, Vitor will again have a shot at being the UFC number 1, which he hasn’t been since 2004, when he took and later lost the light heavyweight belt against Randy Couture. Check out what the “Phenomenon” had to say:
You must have watched the fight between Anderson and Chael Sonnen a number of times. What are your thoughts on it? Will it influence your strategy?
When Anderson fought Chael, he was injured, and even so, in my opinion, he had a good fight. However, there isn’t much I can absorb from that fight. I know I have to be ready for anything.
Belfort knocked out Rich Franklin in his last appearance. Photo: Josh Hedges.
You had to drop down a weight class. Do you feel this is a good move and that you’re still as strong as you always were?
I’ve already had two fights in this division and I feel fine. I’m a professional and this is what I do.
Seven years ago you faced Randy Couture for the second time. What do you remember from that fight? Do you feel you’re now in a similar situation?
If I look back, I’ll see myself again having a chance to be back at the top. Now I feel better, not just as a fighter, but as a family man and human being.
With just a few days to go till the fight, how are you feeling?
I’m really excited. It’s another big opportunity that has arisen in my career. I’m going to fight one of the best on the planet. It’s my time to show what I can do.
You’ve faced big names from MMA before, but have you ever faced anyone as skillful as Anderson?
If I were to say I’ve faced anyone like him I’d be lying. He’s unique. But I’m doing fine and I did a lot of preparation so I can get in the octagon and do my best.
This is considered the most highly-anticipated fight in history. How do you feel as far as that goes (see Anderson’s response here)?
This fight will make worldwide MMA history. Two Brazilians will be going at it and that will be important in making people in our country appreciate the sport more. It may open doors for new talent. Who knows, maybe one day MMA will be compared to soccer or volleyball.