UFC wants Belfort to be Back in the Fighting Business
Vitor Belfort was out of a title shot against Anderson Silva because of the shoulder surgery at UFC 112 last April. In October, Vitor Belfort said he is primed for a return to the Octagon.
“My return to the ring has been defined by (UFC owner) Lorenzo (Fertitta), He called me and wants me to be ready in October and I’ll be ready by then”, said Belfort in an interview.
For Silva, who faces wrestler Chael Sonnen on August 17 at UFC 117 in Oakland, the former UFC light heavyweight champion, Belfort has few words.
“What bothered me about Anderson, and also bothered us all, was the lack of respect he had with the athlete and man inside the Octagon, talking dirty words, skipping, then kneeling to ask for forgiveness and then not wanting to apologize, It was a controversy, people tried to tell him, but (his manager) Ed Soares translated incorrectly. What bothers me is that I had great affection for him when I knew him. Now he is not the same as before”, said Belfort.
The 33-year-old Belfort said he is using his recovery time to come back an elite fighter. He has back-to-back first-round finishes over Rich Franklin and Matt Lindland. Belfort said, in his sights, he has his one-time teammate Silva, also touted for his striking skills.
“Everybody wants this fight and should make for some good betting action. I think it will be the fight of the century; It is a much-anticipated fight and has to happen. It did not happen, but now it has to happen more than ever. Now, I am more determined. I really want this fight. Before they put this fight on me, but now I want it. Now it’s my challenge and it will come,” said Belfort.