Anderson da Silva, a Brazilian mixed martial artist and boxer, is a former UFC Middleweight Champion. He holds the record for the longest title reign in UFC history at 2,457 days, spanning from 2006 to 2013, during which he achieved 16 consecutive victories. After leaving the UFC in 2020, Silva returned to boxing.
April 1975: Birth of Anderson Silva
Anderson da Silva was born in April 1975, marking the beginning of the journey of a future legend in the world of mixed martial arts.
April 1975: Early Life and Martial Arts Beginnings
Born in São Paulo, Brazil, in April 1975, Anderson Silva's childhood was spent in Curitiba, where his journey into the world of martial arts began with jiu-jitsu alongside neighborhood children. As a teenager, he expanded his skills by training in taekwondo, capoeira, and muay thai.
1992: Dan Henderson's Olympic Wrestling Background
The text highlights Dan Henderson's participation in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Greco-Roman wrestling, emphasizing his strong grappling background.
1996: Dan Henderson's Second Olympic Appearance
Dan Henderson's participation in the 1996 Summer Olympics, alongside his 1992 appearance, solidified his reputation as a formidable wrestler.
1997: Silva's Professional Debut
Anderson Silva's professional fighting career commenced in 1997 in Brazil, marking the beginning of his journey in the welterweight category.
2000: Silva's First Professional Loss
In 2000, Anderson Silva experienced his first professional loss against Luiz Azeredo, a setback that would be followed by a nine-fight winning streak showcasing his resilience.
August 2001: Silva's Victory over Hayato Sakurai
On August 26, 2001, Anderson Silva achieved a significant victory by defeating Hayato Sakurai, claiming the Shooto Middleweight Championship and handing Sakurai his first loss after 20 undefeated fights.
2002: Silva's Move to PRIDE Fighting Championships
In 2002, Anderson Silva signed with PRIDE Fighting Championships, a pivotal move in his career, and secured impressive victories against Alex Stiebling, Alexander Otsuka, and former UFC welterweight champion Carlos Newton.
June 2004: Silva's Comeback After Loss and Move to Brazilian Top Team
Following a demotivating loss to Daiju Takase, Anderson Silva contemplated quitting MMA but was persuaded to continue by Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira. He subsequently left Chute Boxe, joined Nogueira at Brazilian Top Team, and secured a decision victory against Jeremy Horn on June 27, 2004.
April 2006: Silva Signs with the UFC
In a significant development in April 2006, the UFC announced the signing of Anderson Silva to a multi-fight contract, marking the beginning of his rise to prominence in the organization.
June 2006: Silva's Emphatic UFC Debut
Anderson Silva made an unforgettable UFC debut at Ultimate Fight Night 5 on June 28, 2006. Despite being relatively unknown in the United States, he shocked many by knocking out Chris Leben in the first round, showcasing his exceptional striking accuracy.
October 2006: Silva Becomes UFC Middleweight Champion
On October 14, 2006, at UFC 64, Anderson Silva etched his name in UFC history by defeating Rich Franklin via TKO in the first round to become the new UFC Middleweight Champion. This victory solidified his status as a dominant force in the division.
October 2006: Silva's Previous Victory Against Rich Franklin
The text mentions Anderson Silva's victory over Rich Franklin in October 2006, highlighting it as his first title defense. This victory marked the beginning of his reign as UFC Middleweight Champion.
2006: Silva's Reign as UFC Middleweight Champion Begins
Anderson Silva's legendary reign as the UFC Middleweight Champion commenced in 2006, a period that would see him dominate the division and etch his name in MMA history.
2006: Silva vs. Okami I
In 2006, Anderson Silva faced Yushin Okami, resulting in a disqualification loss for Silva. This fight was later avenged by Silva in their rematch at UFC 134 in 2011.
February 2007: Silva's Non-Title Victory Against Travis Lutter
In February 2007, at UFC 67, Anderson Silva faced Travis Lutter in a non-title bout after Lutter missed weight. Despite Lutter's grappling credentials, Silva secured a submission victory in the second round.
July 2007: Silva's Title Defense Against Nate Marquardt
Anderson Silva successfully defended his UFC Middleweight title against Nate Marquardt at UFC 73 on July 7, 2007, securing a TKO victory in the first round.
October 2007: Silva's Rematch Victory Against Rich Franklin
Anderson Silva faced Rich Franklin in a rematch at UFC 77 on October 20, 2007, in Franklin's hometown of Cincinnati. Silva emerged victorious again, defending his title with a TKO victory in the second round.
March 2008: Silva's Title Unification Victory Against Dan Henderson
On March 1, 2008, at UFC 82, Anderson Silva faced Pride Middleweight champion Dan Henderson in a highly anticipated title unification bout. Silva showcased his well-rounded skills by defeating Henderson via rear-naked choke in the second round.
July 2008: Silva's Light Heavyweight Victory Against James Irvin
Anderson Silva made his Light Heavyweight debut at UFC Fight Night 14 on July 19, 2008, against James Irvin. He secured a quick and impressive knockout victory in the first round.
October 2008: Silva's TKO Victory and Criticism at UFC 90
Anderson Silva defended his Middleweight title against Patrick Côté at UFC 90 on October 25, 2008. Although Silva won by TKO after Côté suffered a knee injury, his performance drew criticism for a perceived lack of aggression.
April 2009: UFC 97: Silva vs. Leites
In April 2009, Anderson Silva secured his 9th consecutive UFC victory at UFC 97 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, defeating Thales Leites via unanimous decision. This victory marked the first instance where an opponent took Silva through a full 5 rounds in the UFC. Despite the win, Silva faced criticism for his perceived lackluster performance during the fight.
August 2009: UFC 101: Silva vs. Griffin
Anderson Silva fought Forrest Griffin at UFC 101 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in August 2009, knocking down Griffin three times in the first round. Silva's performance earned him "Beatdown of the Year" honors from Sherdog, shared with the Brock Lesnar vs. Frank Mir rematch.
January 2010: Scheduled Bout with Vitor Belfort at UFC 108 (Cancelled)
In January 2010, a fight between Anderson Silva and Vitor Belfort was planned for UFC 108 but later cancelled due to Silva's need to recover from surgery.
February 2010: Scheduled Bout with Vitor Belfort at UFC 109 (Cancelled)
The fight against Vitor Belfort, initially planned for January, was rescheduled to February 2010 for UFC 109. However, Silva's recovery progress was slower than expected, leading to the cancellation of the bout.
April 2010: Scheduled Bout with Vitor Belfort at UFC 112 (Cancelled)
In April 2010, a third attempt to schedule the bout between Anderson Silva and Vitor Belfort at UFC 112 was made but ultimately cancelled due to an injury sustained by Belfort. Demian Maia was selected as a replacement to challenge Silva for the title.
August 2010: UFC 117: Silva vs. Sonnen I
August 2010 saw Anderson Silva defend his UFC Middleweight title against Chael Sonnen at UFC 117. Despite being dominated by Sonnen for a majority of the fight, Silva secured a triangle armbar submission in the fifth round, winning the fight.
August 2010: First Fight with Chael Sonnen at UFC 117
In August 2010 at UFC 117, Anderson Silva faced Chael Sonnen in a fight that would later be recognized for its significance. This bout would eventually be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame Fight Wing.
November 2010: Belfort vs. Okami (UFC 122)
In November 2010, Vitor Belfort was initially scheduled to fight Yushin Okami at UFC 122 but was replaced by Nate Marquardt.
February 2011: UFC 126: Silva vs. Belfort
Anderson Silva faced Vitor Belfort at UFC 126 in February 2011, knocking out Belfort in the first round. This victory extended Silva's title defense streak to eight and marked Belfort's first knockout loss in 28 fights.
August 2011: UFC 134: Silva vs. Okami II
In August 2011, Anderson Silva fought Yushin Okami again at UFC 134, winning by TKO in the second round. This victory avenged Silva's previous disqualification loss to Okami in 2006.
August 2011: Partnership with 9INE and Corinthians Sponsorship
In August 2011, Anderson Silva signed with 9INE, a sports marketing company co-owned by Brazilian soccer legend Ronaldo, becoming their first client. He also secured a sponsorship deal with Corinthians, his favorite football club.
June 2012: UFC 147: Silva vs. Sonnen II (Rescheduled)
In June 2012, a rematch between Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen was planned for UFC 147 but later moved to July 2012 due to scheduling conflicts with the UN Conference Rio+20.
July 2012: UFC 148: Silva vs. Sonnen II
The highly anticipated rematch between Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen took place in July 2012 at UFC 148. Silva emerged victorious, defeating Sonnen by TKO in the second round.
October 2012: UFC 153: Silva vs. Bonnar
Anderson Silva faced Stephan Bonnar at UFC 153 in October 2012, securing a first-round TKO victory. This win marked the first time Stephan Bonnar was stopped via strikes in his light heavyweight career.
July 2013: UFC 162: Silva vs. Weidman I
In July 2013 at UFC 162, Anderson Silva faced Chris Weidman, a fight where he was considered the favorite. However, Silva lost the fight by KO in the second round, ending his long reign as champion in the UFC.
2013: End of Silva's Record-Breaking Title Reign
After an unprecedented reign of dominance, Anderson Silva's time as the UFC Middleweight Champion came to an end in 2013.
July 2014: Silva Signs New 15-Fight Contract with UFC
In July 2014, despite calls for his retirement, Anderson Silva signed a new 15-fight contract with the UFC, replacing his previous contract which had eight fights remaining.
October 2014: Silva Announced as Coach for The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 4
In October 2014, it was announced that Anderson Silva would coach opposite Maurício Rua for The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 4, with filming beginning in early 2015. However, his participation was put into question following a failed drug test.
2014: End of Nike Sponsorship
In 2014, Anderson Silva's sponsorship deal with Nike ended when the sportswear giant decided to withdraw from the UFC.
January 2015: UFC 183: Silva vs. Diaz
Anderson Silva returned to the Octagon on January 31, 2015, at UFC 183, facing Nick Diaz. He secured a unanimous decision victory. However, his victory was marred by a failed drug test, where he tested positive for two anabolic steroids.
February 2015: Silva's Failed Drug Test Results and Additional Substances Found
In February 2015, the results of Anderson Silva's drug test from UFC 183 came back positive for Drostanolone and Androstane. Further testing revealed the presence of another undisclosed illegal substance. A subsequent post-fight urine test also showed positive results for Drostanolone, Oxazepam, and Temazepam.
2015: Silva's Participation in TUF Brazil 4 and Replacement by Nogueira
Anderson Silva's participation in The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 4, initially confirmed, was later revoked after a failed drug test came to light. Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira was brought in as his replacement.
February 2016: UFC Fight Night 84: Silva vs. Bisping
After serving a suspension due to the failed drug test, Anderson Silva returned to face Michael Bisping at UFC Fight Night 84 in February 2016. Despite dropping Bisping with a knee in the third round, Silva ultimately lost the fight via unanimous decision. The fight, however, was not without controversy due to the circumstances surrounding the near-finish in round three.
May 2016: Scheduled Bout with Uriah Hall at UFC 198 (Withdrawal)
A fight between Anderson Silva and Uriah Hall was scheduled for UFC 198 in May 2016. However, Silva withdrew from the bout due to the need for gallbladder removal surgery, leading to Hall's removal from the event as well.
July 2016: Fight against Daniel Cormier at UFC 200
In July 2016, Anderson Silva stepped in on short notice to face Daniel Cormier, the reigning UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, in a non-title bout at UFC 200. Silva lost the fight by unanimous decision.
February 2017: Fight against Derek Brunson at UFC 208
Anderson Silva faced Derek Brunson at UFC 208 in February 2017. Despite a unanimous decision victory for Silva, the result was controversial, with 19 out of 23 media outlets scoring the fight in favor of Brunson.
June 2017: Canceled Fight against Kelvin Gastelum at UFC 212
Anderson Silva was scheduled to fight Kelvin Gastelum at UFC 212 in June 2017. However, the matchup was canceled after Gastelum tested positive for marijuana. Despite having two months to find a replacement, Silva and the UFC couldn't secure an opponent, and Silva did not compete at the event.
November 2017: Fight against Kelvin Gastelum Canceled Due to Failed Drug Test
Anderson Silva was set to fight Kelvin Gastelum at UFC Fight Night 122 in November 2017, but the fight was canceled when Silva failed a USADA drug test in October 2017.
July 2018: USADA Exonerates Silva, Issues One-Year Suspension
In July 2018, USADA exonerated Anderson Silva from a previous failed drug test, attributing it to contaminated supplements. However, he received a retroactive one-year suspension dating back to November 2017, making him eligible to fight again in November 2018.
November 2018: Eligible to Fight Again After Suspension
In November 2018, Anderson Silva became eligible to fight again after serving a one-year suspension issued by USADA.
February 2019: Fight of the Night Award at UFC 234
In February 2019, Anderson Silva returned to the Octagon and faced Israel Adesanya at UFC 234. He lost the fight by unanimous decision, but their performance earned them both the Fight of the Night award.
May 2019: Loss to Jared Cannonier at UFC 237
Anderson Silva's fight against Jared Cannonier at UFC 237 in May 2019 ended in a first-round TKO loss after Silva suffered a leg injury from a kick, rendering him unable to continue.
July 2019: Becomes a U.S. Citizen
Anderson Silva became a naturalized citizen of the United States in July 2019, marking a personal milestone in his life.
October 2020: Loss to Uriah Hall and Hint at Retirement
On October 2020, Anderson Silva faced Uriah Hall at UFC Fight Night: Hall vs. Silva. He lost the fight via technical knockout in the fourth round. Following the fight, Silva hinted at retirement from MMA in an Instagram post, though he didn't make an official announcement.
November 2020: Silva's Departure from UFC and Return to Boxing
In November 2020, Anderson Silva made a significant career move by leaving the UFC and stepping back into the world of professional boxing.
November 2020: Release from UFC Contract
In November 2020, the UFC announced Anderson Silva's release from his contract, allowing him to explore opportunities with other promotions. This move marked a significant turning point in his career.
March 2021: Boxing Match Against Julio César Chávez Jr. Announced
In March 2021, Anderson Silva's foray into professional boxing was announced. He was scheduled to face Julio César Chávez Jr. on June 19, 2021.
June 2021: Victory Against Julio César Chávez Jr. in Boxing
Anderson Silva won his boxing match against Julio César Chávez Jr. in June 2021 by split decision, showcasing his adaptability and skills beyond MMA. Silva maintained a higher punch output throughout the fight, landing 392 punches compared to Chávez Jr.'s 153.
September 11, 2021: Knockout Victory Against Tito Ortiz in Boxing
On September 11, 2021, Anderson Silva continued his successful venture into professional boxing with a first-round knockout victory against former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Tito Ortiz.
May 21, 2022: Exhibition Boxing Match Against Bruno Machado
Anderson Silva participated in an eight-round exhibition boxing match against fellow Brazilian MMA veteran Bruno Machado on May 21, 2022, in Abu Dhabi. Despite a knockdown in the fifth round, the fight went the distance, and no winner was declared.
July 2023: Silva's Induction into the UFC Hall of Fame
In July 2023, Anderson Silva's indelible mark on MMA was officially recognized as he was inducted into the prestigious UFC Hall of Fame.
April 2024: UFC Hall of Fame Induction Announcement
At UFC 300 in April 2024, it was announced that Anderson Silva's first fight against Chael Sonnen from UFC 117 in August 2010 would be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame Fight Wing. The induction ceremony is scheduled for International Fight Week in June 2024.
June 15, 2024: Scheduled Boxing Match Against Chael Sonnen
Anderson Silva is scheduled for another boxing match, this time against a familiar opponent, Chael Sonnen, on June 15, 2024, in São Paulo, Brazil. The bout is set for five rounds at 216 pounds, marking a rematch of their two previous encounters in the UFC.