Wanderlei Silva`s opponent, Acelino Freitas, has issued an apology for his involvement in the chaotic brawl that resulted in the MMA legend being knocked unconscious. Freitas, a two-time former boxing world champion, despite being 44 pounds lighter than Silva, dominated the fight. Silva, a former PRIDE champion, resorted to foul play, incurring point deductions for headbutting.
When Silva was disqualified in the fourth round, chaos erupted in the ring as members from both corners poured in for a full-scale brawl. Ultimately, one of Freitas`s sons punched the MMA star, knocking him out, which led to a concerning situation and the 49-year-old`s hospitalization.
Acelino Freitas Apologizes Over Post-Fight Incident
Acelino `Popo` Freitas subsequently took to social media to clarify his stance on the viral Wanderlei Silva brawl. Millions viewed his initial video post-event, where he offered a comprehensive and heartfelt apology to his opponent, even after a contentious and unpleasant fight.
“Wanderlei was disqualified for foul play and illegal, unsportsmanlike strikes in the quad where it was just him and me,” Popo stated. “Before that, he had already taken many blows in every round we fought. He lacked the emotional composure to maintain a clean boxing match and continue to the end. The outcome is clear: the Spaten Fight Night belt is mine!”
However, he then adopted a more serious tone, adding:
“Once again, I regret the incidents after the match, and I reiterate all my expressions of repudiation and previous statements rejecting all attempts by the opposing team to manipulate information. But boxing is greater: respect, discipline, and truth will always prevail. Thank you all for your support. This victory is ours!”
