Wanderlei Silva is an MMA legend. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook bellatormma
Wanderlei Silva announced this Wednesday (1) that it will take legal action against Rafael Freitas, Popó's son, after he was brutally attacked at the end of the main fight of Spaten Fight Night 2, held last Saturday (27), in São Paulo. According to 'Cachorro Louco', the attack was a criminal act and resulted in serious facial injuries.
"I'm very hurt, inside and out. I broke both orbital bones and my nose in four places. I was cowardly attacked from behind at an event that didn't even have adequate security. This cannot go unpunished. I want justice," Wand said in a video posted on social media.
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The confrontation between Wanderlei Silva and Popó Freitas, two idols from different disciplines—MMA and boxing, respectively—ended controversially. Wanderlei was disqualified in the 4th round for repeated illegal strikes, especially headbutts, resulting in three infractions during the fight.
Immediately after the disqualification was announced, the atmosphere in the ring heated up. Members of both teams invaded the ring, and a general brawl ensued. In the midst of the commotion, Rafael Freitas, Popó's son, entered the ring and struck Wanderlei at least twice. One to the back and the other to the face, leaving the fighter unconscious for a few moments.
Wand was quickly rescued and taken to the hospital, where multiple fractures were found on his face, as well as a deep cut above his eye, which required seven stitches.
Charges and defense
Wanderlei's lawyer, Cláudio Dalledone, stated that criminal measures are being taken against Rafael Freitas and, possibly, also against Acelino Popo.
"We are facing an act that can be characterized as attempted murder, given the context and the violence used. It wasn't a fight, it was an attack," he said.
Sporting consequences for Wanderlei Silva and Popó
The National Boxing Council (CNB) applied sanctions to several people involved in the event. Wanderlei Silva and Popó Freitas were suspended for 180 days from competitions sanctioned by the entity. Wanderlei's coach, André Dida, received a one-year suspension, being singled out as one of those responsible for inflaming tensions.
Other members of Popó's team were also punished: Luis Claudio and Iago Freitas received 180 days, while Lucas Silva received a 90-day suspension.
Rafael Freitas, however, escaped formal punishment, as he was not licensed as an athlete or cornerman at the event. Despite this, the CNB announced that it will recommend an indefinite ban on him from any activity related to events sanctioned by the organization.
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