Sherdog’s Top 10Sherdog’s Top 10: Wanderlei Silva Moments (Good, Bad & Ugly)
Number 4
Ricardo Arona was one of “The Axe Murderer’s” fiercest rivals. |
Photo: Masa Fukui/Sherdog.com
4. NARROW VENGEANCE
After losing a unanimous decision to Ricardo Arona under the Pride Fighting Championships banner in August 2005, Silva looked to bounce back four months later in an immediate rematch at Pride “Shockwave 2005” on New Year’s Eve. There was something deeper and more personal with this pairing, as the bad blood running between the two fighters went far beyond a healthy rivalry.
Arona nullified the top-notch striking of Silva by controlling much of the action on the mat, but as was the case often with “The Axe Murderer,” he did more noticeable damage with his strikes to earn a split decision nod. In a fight in which the belt was on the line, fans and pundits alike felt Silva had much more to prove after losing the first encounter with Arona. The fight was extremely close. Silva was the more aggressive of the two on the feet, but Arona achieved better positions on the ground. Arona’s reaction to the announcement and his expressions while leaving the ring told the whole story.
The controversial victory was the second-to-last win for Silva inside Pride.
Number 3 » Part One of Three
More Top 10s
