Anderson Silva: Losing Like a Champion
Anderson Silva has drawn some criticism for questionable antics in the cage and occasionally in the setting of staredowns in the UFC; but one thing is definite: he knows how to handle defeat with class. In this video blog by UFC president Dana White, we see that Anderson Silva can win like a champion, but also lose like one. Anderson gets knocked out and his whole empire as UFC champion comes crumbling down. But he gets up, sincerely congratulates and hugs Chris Weidman for an inordinate amount of time. He goes on to keep his head up, greet people backstage, and when he meets Roy Jones Junior and greets him with enthusiasm, Anderson Silva is concerned and asking Roy if he enjoyed the show. Then he goes on to allow Usher back to his room, sits down and sincerely listens to a speech of advice from the pop star. This is something that a lot of fighters would do in victory, never mind a loss. It's actually a great example of how to handle a loss with class and dignity. In the midst of battle, Anderson Silva can have an alter-ego emerge which uses all kinds of psychological mind games that can turn many fans off; but certainly he is a tremendous example of how to be humble and classy before and after fights, whether it's a win or a loss.