The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has unveiled its latest addition to the prestigious UFC Hall of Fame's 'Fight Wing': the iconic showdown between middleweight titans Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen.
Set to join the esteemed class of 2024, this historic clash will be celebrated during the 12th Annual UFC International Fight Week at the T-Mobile Arena on Thursday, June 27. Fans worldwide can witness this momentous occasion live, exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS.
Dana White, UFC President & CEO, expressed his admiration for the unforgettable encounter, stating, "The first fight between Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen was incredible. This is the fight that made Anderson a star and showed the world that Chael could compete with anyone in the division."
The monumental bout, which headlined UFC 117: SILVA vs SONNEN on August 7, 2010, at Oakland's Oracle Arena, captivated audiences with its sheer intensity and drama. Silva, the reigning UFC middleweight champion, squared off against the formidable Sonnen, who entered the event riding a three-fight win streak.
From the opening bell, the clash lived up to its billing as both warriors engaged in a fierce exchange of strikes and takedowns. Sonnen's relentless assault saw him dominate the early rounds, showcasing his grappling prowess with relentless ground-and-pound. However, Silva's resilience shone through as he weathered the storm and mounted a remarkable comeback.
In a stunning turn of events, Silva secured a dramatic submission victory in the fifth round, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat with a triangle armbar. This historic triumph not only solidified Silva's legacy as one of the sport's greatest champions but also earned him the distinction of breaking Royce Gracie's UFC record for the longest winning streak.
The significance of this epic encounter reverberates throughout MMA history, earning it the prestigious title of Fight of the Year at the Fighters Only World MMA Awards. With Silva and Sonnen etching their names in the annals of UFC lore, their rivalry would culminate in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 148, where Silva emerged victorious once again.
As the UFC commemorates this timeless battle, fans and fighters alike will reflect on the indelible impact of Silva vs. Sonnen, a contest that encapsulates the essence of mixed martial arts at its finest.