Forget Terry Crews. Anderson Silva will face old UFC rival Chel Sonnen on June 15th.
Sunday was a strange day for Spider fans as they witnessed a bizarre whiplash phenomenon of match announcements and match cancellations. Initially, it looked like Cruz and Silva were going to box each other at an event in Brazil, but suddenly the whole thing changed in what could have been a promo to get our attention.
Now stepping in Crews' place is Silva's “real opponent” Chell Sonnen.
The news was announced by both Silva and Sonnen on social media.
“Anderson, see you on June 15th,” Sonnen wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“Anderson Silva's real opponent in the grand finale of Spaten Fight Night: Chael Sonnen!” Posted a promotion for Spaten Fight Night on Instagram. “You're ready for this historic duel, aren't you?”
Chel Sonnen has never boxed, so he's not sure he'd describe what's about to happen as a “historic duel.” However, the two have a long history together, with Chael discussing his path to the title in August 2010, and nearly winning by decision. Anderson sealed the victory with a triangle late in the match.
A second, less competitive bout took place in 2012, with Silva winning by TKO in the second round. And considering Silva's extensive boxing training and complete lack of match and chel experience, his third bout is expected to be similarly uncompetitive.
Anderson Silva retired from MMA in 2020, but has fought four times in boxing and has a record of 2 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw. His last fight was a decision loss to Jake Paul in 2022. Chel Sonnen has not fought since ending his MMA career with Bellator in 2019.
