Anderson Silva lost to Uriah Hall in the main event of UFC Vegas 12 Saturday night but said afterwards it was “tough to say it’s my last” fight. “The Spider’s” retirement sounded more official in a statement he released on social media Sunday.
The former UFC middleweight champion, who was knocked out in the fourth round by “Prime Time” at the UFC APEX, released statements in Portuguese and English on his social media. The message in English did not include the part in which Silva mentions, in all caps, he’s saying “goodbye” to his life as a professional athlete.
The complete statement, translated by MMA Fighting, can be seen below.
Good morning, my people. Today is a different day for a simple reason, say goodbye to an entire life dedicated to my sport. Yesterday was so special, I went there to do what I love. I didn’t imagine I would be as happy as I am now. Even in defeat, I’m feeling at peace.
I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart, my team, my family, my friends, and everyone who watched the fight, know that it was always a great honor to fight all these years with your support.
I want to thank the God for granting me the gift of the fight! Thank you my people for all understanding, for all your support and for all your amazing moments that we live in this sport together!
I hope I left it in memory and in the heart of each of you a little of who I am, that you can overcome difficulties, every second of uncertainty and to overcome obstacles in your lives!
Never think about giving up, as hard as things get at some point; know that I leave all my love, all my respect for you!
Strength and honor always and God bless you all!
