At UFC 153 Erick Silva will be facing his toughest test in former welterweight title contender Jon Fitch. The move represents a huge step up for Silva and could propel the 28-year-old into stardom.
He’s already regarded as one of the best prospects in the UFC. Despite his age, Silva has only competed in 17 professional bouts since stepping into the cage back in 2005. He’s gone undefeated in the UFC bar a disqualification against Caro Prater—a fight many consider a win for Silva.
Silva is just one of many Brazilian prospects who are beginning to make their way through the rankings. With legends like Anderson Silva and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira entering the twilight of their careers, it will be up to the young prospects to lead the way for Brazilian MMA in the future.