Anderson Silva has spoken out in defence of Dana White, despite acknowledging their relationship during his UFC career was often difficult.
The former UFC middleweight champion, who fights Tyron Woodley on the Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua undercard in Miami on Friday, addressed recent criticism aimed at White following his move into boxing with TKO Boxing. White launched the new promotion earlier this year, staging its first event in September, but has faced backlash for operating outside the Muhammad Ali Act.
Speaking ahead of his fight, Silva said the criticism ignored White’s business mindset. “A lot of people talk bad about Dana, but it’s business,” Silva said. “It’s numbers. Numbers don’t lie. If you don’t make the numbers, why should he keep you? Dana is Dana – he is a boss.”
Silva added that boxing is a different environment, calling it an “old sport” that requires respect beyond financial power.
The Brazilian also defended Jake Paul in the build-up to his clash with Joshua, saying critics underestimate the YouTuber-turned-boxer. Silva, who went eight rounds with Paul, described him as a “real fighter” and said he has changed the landscape of boxing.
