UFC : Weidman retains belt against Silva after ghastly injury stops fight
By Rich Mazon
PhilBoxing.com
Sun, 29 Dec 2013
Chris Weidman and Anderson Silva?s rematch for the Ultimate Fighting Championship?s (UFC) middleweight crown ended in a gruesome injury to Silva who broke his left leg after a landed kick on his opponent.
Silva, 38, the former champion, fractured his left leg after his kick was blocked by Weidman in the 2nd round of their scheduled 5 round championship match which was the main event of UFC 168 at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, ending the fight and possibly his stellar career as one of Mixed Martial Arts? most accomplished fighter.
Weidman, 29, who scored the huge upset against Silva last July to wrestle the crown which Silva held for 7 years, was very effective in his feet and in the ground in the first round of the fight at the sold-out venue in UFC?s final offering for the year.
Weidman from New York buzzed Silva of Brazil with his punches and wrestled him down to the canvass successfully, where he continued striking his opponent with his fists and elbows.
Silva prevented further damage to himself and a potential submission move by his opponent by wrapping his legs across Weidman?s waist and maneuvering away from Weidman while his back was against the canvas in the majority of the 1st round.
A series of kicks from both fighters ensued in the 2nd, until Silva landed that fateful kick and he immediately yelled in pain after he hurt his leg. He was strapped down to a stretcher and brought immediately to the nearest hospital for further treatment.
It was one of the worst injuries in contact sports or in any sports in general.
Weidman retained his belt with the victory and preserved his undefeated record in eleven fights. He also solidified his standing as the man to beat for the crown which was monopolized by Silva for years.
You can reach the author at rrmaze24@aol.com and on Twitter @Freemazon910.
Photo: Silva breaks his leg.
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