Anderson Silva Criticized for 'Disrespecting' Opponent in UFC Return

The MMA legend's controversial victory over Derek Brunson at UFC 208 left many fans unimpressed.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Anderson Silva, one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, returned to the UFC in 2017 after a five-year absence. However, his victory over Derek Brunson at UFC 208 was met with criticism from fans and fellow fighters, who accused Silva of 'disrespecting' his opponent with his showboating and lack of significant strikes during the fight.

Why it matters

Silva is widely regarded as one of the all-time MMA greats, but his controversial performance at UFC 208 raised questions about his decline and whether he was still capable of competing at the highest level. The reaction to his win also highlighted the high expectations and scrutiny that come with being an all-time great in a sport like MMA.

The details

In the co-main event of UFC 208, Anderson Silva defeated Derek Brunson by unanimous decision, but his performance was criticized by many, including former opponent Michael Bisping. Brunson outstruck Silva 118-54, but the judges awarded the victory to the Brazilian legend. Bisping accused Silva of 'disrespecting everybody' with his showboating and lack of significant strikes during the fight.

  • On February 11, 2017, UFC 208 took place at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
  • Silva's victory over Brunson marked his first win in over five years.

The players

Anderson Silva

A UFC legend and former middleweight champion, widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time.

Derek Brunson

An American MMA fighter who competed against Silva at UFC 208.

Michael Bisping

A former UFC middleweight champion and Silva's former opponent, who criticized Silva's performance against Brunson.

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What they’re saying

“He was kind of disrespecting everybody there, disrespecting his opponent.”

— Michael Bisping, Former UFC Middleweight Champion (Sirius XM)

The takeaway

Anderson Silva's controversial victory over Derek Brunson at UFC 208 highlighted the high expectations and scrutiny that come with being an all-time great in MMA. Despite his legendary status, Silva's performance was criticized by fans and fellow fighters, raising questions about his decline and ability to compete at the highest level.