Maldonado And Silva’s Memorable Reunion Atop The Cage At UFC 179

Last night Fabio Maldonado defeated Hans Stringer via TKO (Watch that HERE) in the second round to reignite the fire in the Brazilian crowd, which had started to lose steam after back to back decisions to start the main card.

After his win, Maldonado did as many other fighters do to celebrate, he climbed on top of the cage. However, when he did so, he was joined by his mentor and friend, whom he had a falling out with two years ago, Anderson Silva.

Maldonado spoke about the moment in the post-fight press conference.

“I went up on the cage, and he looked at me, and I told him, ‘Come up. Come here,’ and then he came up. He hugged me, and I told him, ‘Hey man, I’m sorry. I’m sorry I didn’t speak to you personally and I left it to the press.’

“Maybe a reporter got my on a sad day. Maybe one day I thought I was in the (right). I regretted some things I said to him. But if you talk to someone every day, and after a while everything is bad and you talk to the press, that’s not good. I told him I’m sorry and I’m glad I saw him.”

Maldonado told media members that as he tried explaining himself, Silva quickly forgave him.

“‘Stop it. It’s all good,’ So I gave him a kiss on the forehead.”

“All I can say is, which one of you had never fought with a family member or close friend? My problem was bringing some personal things I had with Anderson to the press. And today, at 34 years old, I’m a little more careful about what I say to the press.”