Chael Sonnen: Vitor Belfort is tougher fight than champ Anderson Silva

West Linn, Ore.’s Chael Sonnen (24-10-1 MMA, 4-3 UFC) played the perfect politician on Saturday night.

After dominating anointed contender Nate Marquardt at UFC 109 on Feb. 6, Sonnen talked up his donor and picked a fight with someone across the aisle.

“I hope Anderson (Silva) wins (at UFC 112) because I think Vitor (Belfort) is a lot tougher fighter,” Sonnen said after UFC 109. “If I had to choose between the two, I’m going to take the low road and take the easier opponent to the championship.”