Chael Sonnen admits Anderson Silva is better than him

Given the outrage expressed by some fans regarding Anderson Silva’s in-ring antics against Chael Sonnen this past Saturday night at UFC 148, it seems the fallen contender has plenty of ammo to fire in the Brazilian’s direction in hopes of earning a third title-fight in the immediate future. The criticism surrounding Silva stemmed from the champion spreading Vaseline from his face onto his body before the start of the opening round, as well as from gripping Sonnen’s shorts at times to control his movement.

However, at the post-event press conference Sonnen was not only respectful of his rival but quite humble as well.

“Anderson grabbed my trunks but I grabbed his right back. It goes both ways,” said Sonnen, not taking the bait when asked about the matter. “And we can’t sit and nitpick some of that stuff. It’s a two-man sport. It’s kind of like moving the chains in football. It evens itself out. What goes around comes around. If Anderson grabbed my shorts tonight I’ll grab somebody else’s down the road.”

Sonnen also showed Silva some love when discussing the title-holder’s offer of a handshake and future BBQ, expressing appreciation for Silva’s sportsmanship and offering it back in return.

“I thought it was very nice of him,” said a gracious Sonnen. “It’s very important when you lose a fight that you don’t say things like, ‘My opponent was better…tonight.’ The better guy wins every time. The better guy won tonight.”

While the two talented 185ers aren’t quite exchanging Christmas cards just yet, it seems the bad blood between the two has gone from a raging boil to a mild simmer…at least until Sonnen’s next run at the divisional strap, that is.

Check out some Sonnen’s responses at the presser, plus Silva explaining how motivated he still is, in the video below:

PHOTO CREDIT – UFC

Source: http://fiveouncesofpain.com/2012/07/09/chael-sonnen-admits-anderson-silva-is-better-than-him/

Matt Andersen  Alex Andrade  Jermaine Andrè  Yoji Anjo  Ao Hailin