The legendary Anderson Silva has identified the most challenging opponent in his MMA career.
He revealed that it was Hayato Sakurai, explaining, “Fighting him was my first title fight, which was a very intimidating experience. When we arrived in Japan for the match, my teammates actually locked me in a room with just a TV. They made me watch all of Hayato`s career highlights. I became completely absorbed in watching his fights.”
Silva continued, “I analyzed his movements and picked up on many things. I remember thinking that Sakurai had already defeated five Brazilians at that point. I thought to myself, `Oh my God, I`m in trouble.` Facing Hayato Sakurai was my first truly significant fight against such a celebrated fighter.”
