Anderson Silva refuses to rule out fighting Jake or Logan Paul as UFC legend says ‘we’ll see’ ahead of boxing return
FUTURE UFC Hall-of-Famer Anderson Silva has refused to rule out fighting the Paul brothers – despite being old enough to be the YouTubers’ dad.
The MMA legend, 46, is currently gearing up for a return to the boxing ring, which he’ll be welcomed back to this weekend by Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
And the former long-reigning UFC middleweight champion is seemingly open to taking part in money-spinning showdowns with social media stars Logan and Jake Paul after his return to the squared circle.
When a potential fight with the Paul brothers was put to Silva, he told MMASucka: “Wow – We’ll see.
“I’m very excited [about this fight, so] we’ll see.
“I’m preparing my mind and I’m preparing my body for being my best.
“And to make success in this sport and showing my respect for this sport.”
Former pound-for-pound king Silva wanted to box whilst he was still under contract with the UFC, setting his sights on a bout with former four-weight world champion Roy Jones Jr.
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The UFC, however, refused to entertain the prospect of their dominant 185lb king fighting outside of the cage.
Silva told MMA Junkie: “I put (it) on the table many, many years ago that opportunity to show the world.
“I gave the opportunity for the UFC to change everything, but it didn’t happen at the moment and that’s fine.
“I think now everything is new and people want to see the entertainment.”
Silva is relishing his eight-rounder with former WBC middleweight king Chavez Jr but admits he doesn’t know what the future holds for him.
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He said: “Everything is possible. Now I’m just trying to challenge myself.
“Maybe I fight on the same card my son is fighting kickboxing. Maybe fight jiu-jitsu – GI or no GI. Maybe muay-Thai.
“I’m very excited to go to Thailand, and train and fight in Thailand.
“I don’t know. Everything is possible.”
Silva’s return to the boxing world was set following his release from the UFC last November.
The legendary Brazilian lost five of his six most recent octagon outings, including his final appearance against Uriah Hall.