Belfort Out of Silva Rematch as Popó Freitas Steps In for Spaten Fight Night 2
Silva now faces retired boxing champion Acelino “Popó” Freitas in São Paulo.
Overview
- Spaten Fight Night cited a statement from neurosurgeon Dr. Jorge Pagura that Vitor Belfort suffered a training concussion with imaging abnormalities, sidelining him for Sept. 27.
- Former two-division champion Acelino “Popó” Freitas (41-2, 34 KOs) was confirmed as Wanderlei Silva’s new main event opponent.
- Silva’s coach Andre Dida publicly disputed Belfort’s explanation, called for medical documentation, and said the fighter “chickened out.”
- Silva and Freitas faced off at pre-fight events in São Paulo as promotion continued for Saturday’s bout.
- Silva referenced plans to revisit the Belfort matchup next year, pointing to a rivalry that began with Belfort’s 44-second knockout in 1998.