Vitor Belfort will not face Wanderlei Silva in the highly anticipated boxing rematch. Belfort withdrew from the fight, originally set to headline the second Spaten Fight Night event. The first Spaten Fight Night featured a boxing clash between former UFC rivals Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen.
Brazilian outlet Globo confirmed Belfort’s withdrawal, and ‘The Phenom’ addressed it himself. Belfort shared a video on Instagram saying medical professionals diagnosed him with a grade 3 concussion while training under Queensberry Rules. This injury forced him to step away from the September 27th card in São Paulo, Brazil.
Silva Remains in the Spotlight
Even with Belfort out, Wanderlei Silva will still compete at the event. Organizers plan to announce a replacement opponent for the former Pride FC champion during Fantastico, one of South America’s most popular programs. Fans can expect the new opponent to be revealed during the show’s Sunday broadcast.
Belfort and Silva’s Long-Running Rivalry
Vitor Belfort and Wanderlei Silva first fought nearly 30 years ago at UFC 17.5 in Brazil. Belfort overwhelmed Silva in just 44 seconds, landing a barrage of strikes that became a staple in UFC highlight reels. Fans have followed this rivalry for decades, with both fighters leaving memorable moments in the octagon.
The two have attempted to rebook the fight over the years. In 2012, Belfort withdrew from a planned rematch at UFC 147 due to a broken hand. Rich Franklin replaced him and defeated Silva by decision, leaving fans still awaiting a true sequel to their first clash.
Silva’s Boxing Debut Approaches
Wanderlei Silva will step into the boxing ring for the first time in his career during Spaten Fight Night 2. While the rematch with Belfort fell through, the story continues as Silva’s replacement opponent will take center stage this weekend. Fans eagerly await the official announcement and the action it promises.
