It was just a couple of months ago that the “Axe Murderer” nation was riddled with grief, upon hearing the news that not only was Wanderlei Silva no longer fighting Yoshihiro Akiyama at UFC 116 in July, but that the former Pride champ was so banged up, he’d be out until 2011. It was a damn tough pill to swallow, considering that Silva was coming off a UD win over Michael Bisping in February, after losing back-to-bouts against Rich Frankin and “Rampage” Jackson.
Well, several weeks have blurred by (courtesy a heavy MMA schedule) and already people are looking towards what’s in store next for Wandy. At the UFC 118 festivities this past weekend, while reportedly still utilizing crutches, Silva informed MMA Fighting that he hopes to be back in stomping action by February or March. So who might be his opponent? While Silva talked about his wish to rematch Vitor Belfort, it’s looking like “The Phenom” will face Yushin Okami in November, and one would think the winner will get a title shot. Silva also conceded that he’d like to face Chris Leben, however, and had this to say about fighting the man who replaced him vs. Akiyama.
“He won’t pass the first two rounds with me,” Silva said. “I saw his fight with Akiyama. It was a great match, and he beat him in the final round. He’s a tough guy. He had only fought two weeks earlier. I think it will be perfect for my next fight.”
Huh. Clearly Wandy’s feeling pretty confident; that aside, here’s hoping this fight happens. Has FOTN written all over it.