Who’s Next for Anderson Silva?
Published by Dave Sholler on October 28th, 2008 in Current Events

 Print |  Email |  RSS

Anderson Silva needs a challenge. After witnessing his lackluster, uninspired performance against Patrick Cote at UFC 90, it is clear that the Brazilian needs stimulation. Already publicly pondering retirement, it is abundantly evident that Silva’s fire to fight has been doused. With that said, MMAMemories.com takes a look at some of the potential opponents for Silva in the months to come. From former world champions to current pound-for-pound contenders, the list of foes could easily spark Silva’s desire to once again unleash all of his talent.

Chuck Liddell – “The Iceman” may have lost three out of his last four fights, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t marketable. By accepting a lucrative bout against Liddell, Silva is guaranteeing himself a stand-up war against one of the best strikers of the past decade. Odds clearly favor the crisper, technically-sound Brazilian, but Liddell’s hands cannot be underrated or overlooked. This would be a fun bout to watch even if Liddell is on the downside of his career.

Prediction: Silva TKO 2

Quinton Jackson – We’ve seen “Rampage” struggle with fighters who understand the value of using angles when striking. This deficiency has caused Jackson to eat some vicious Thai knees and stiff punches in his career. Still, Jackson would give Silva problems. The former light heavyweight champion is fearsomely strong and not afraid to take one to give one. A Jackson-Silva clash would make for an interesting contrast in styles.

Prediction: Silva by TKO 3

Yushin Okami – The last man to defeat Silva, the 185-pound Okami is versatile and can take a punch. While his victory over Silva came via disqualification in 2006, Okami is the last man to conquer Silva and thus may have a slight psychological advantage. Nevertheless, Silva is a superb technician and could become only the second person to stop Okami.

Prediction – Silva by TKO 4

Chael Sonnen – After nearly finishing Silva’s friend, Paulo Filho at WEC 31, Sonnen proved to the world that he has all the tools to be dangerous at middleweight. A solid grappler with underrated hands, Sonnen could pose similar problems for Silva as he did for Filho. On the other hand, Sonnen could suffer the same fate as fellow Team Quest teammate Dan Henderson did at UFC 82, losing by submission.

Prediction – Silva by second round submission (triangle choke)

Forrest Griffin – Should Griffin get by Rashad Evans in his first title defense, don’t be too surprised if he faces Silva next. The Ultimate Fighter series winner has the grit needed to challenge Silva; however, his chin would be dramatically tested. While Griffin’s defense has markedly improved over the years, one must wonder if he can withstand the Spider’s onslaught. It’s hard not to love Griffin, but this seems like a bad match up.

Prediction: Silva by TKO 1

Georges St Pierre – Hmm. Let the intrigue begin. A potential bout between the two could be contested at 185 or at a catch weight. It’s a guaranteed classic either way. St. Pierre is a brilliant five-tool fighter with explosive athleticism. Silva is as multitalented as they come and can adapt to most situations. This is a recipe for fight of the decade. In the end, fans would see which fighter is truly the best in the world.

Prediction: St. Pierre by split decision

BJ Penn – We know that “The Prodigy” is willing to fight at any weight class, so long as he’s fighting the best. Should Penn defeat St. Pierre in their mega-bout slated for early 2009, the Hawaiian would undoubtedly consider a fight with Silva. The flexible, iron-chinned Penn could withstand some of Silva’s firepower and would not be fazed by the Brazilian’s ground game. If he comes in shape, Penn could be a huge threat to Silva.

Prediction: Silva by split decision

Randy Couture – Call it a reach. Call it unlikely. Just don’t call it impossible. If Silva manages to wrestle the light heavyweight crown away from Griffin (or Evans), what’s to say that he wouldn’t consider a run at the heavyweight title? Couture, a former light heavyweight titleholder, would clearly accept the super fight and give Silva a run for his money. A bettor would likely pick Silva based on age and skill, but can you ever count out Couture?

Prediction: DRAW