Overview

• The 49-year-old was disqualified in round four of an exhibition boxing match in São Paulo for repeated headbutts against Acelino “Popó” Freitas.
• A ring melee erupted after the stoppage, and video shows a tuxedoed man punching Silva unconscious; he was identified through footage and social-media traces as Rafael Freitas.
• Silva was treated at São Luiz Hospital for several hours, received stitches, and reportedly suffered a broken nose, later posting that he has severe swelling, dizziness, and a headache that will not subside.
• Freitas apologized to organizers, denied any premeditation, and blamed Silva’s corner, while Fabricio Werdum said Freitas’ side instigated the violence; Spaten Fight Night condemned the scenes and the Brazilian National Boxing Council did not comment.
• No disciplinary actions or criminal charges have been announced, and the incident has intensified scrutiny of event security and the wisdom of matching older fighters, especially after organizers offered a reported $94,000 knockout bonus.