It was only 10 years ago that “The Axe Murderer” Wanderlei Silva not only punched like a mad man, but that he also had a chin made of granite and could absorb his monster blows. Many great fighters have been dropped by his monster kicks and punches, including: Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (twice), Guy Mezger, Kazushi Sakuraba (thrice!), Keith Jardine, Kazuhiro Nakamura and Kazuyuki Fujita.
Since his loss at UFC 132 to Chris Leben, you can’t help but think that he might be calling an end to his career. If so, there’s much to celebrate, including this gem from 2001’s PRIDE 13. In it, Silva takes on Kazushi Sakuraba, who was riding a big three-fight win streak and had already dispatched Ryan, Renzo, Royler and Royce Gracie. Silva wasn’t meant to pull of what happened in their first meeting, but he certainly did.
Where has the time gone? Back in 2001
Wanderlei Silva Vs Kazushi Sakuraba 01 by robeu