UFC icon Anderson Silva was called by legendary boxing champion Canelo Alvarez after it was confirmed he would be facing Jake Paul this month.
The Brazilian is one of the greatest strikers in the history of combat sports, with a renowned record and level of respect from all involved in boxing and MMA. And even Alvarez, one of the modern greats in boxing, has taken time out to show his appreciation, getting in touch with Silva ahead of his massive boxing bout with Paul.
Silva is Paul's first opponent who is bigger, longer and most importantly has a winning professional boxing record. He made his debut in 1998 before a brief return in 2005, but has made an impressive transition since leaving the UFC in 2020, picking up a win over ex-MMA champion Tito Ortiz as well as a stunning scalp over boxing champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
