Anderson Silva's future in the UFC hangs in the balance after he failed a couple of drug tests, but there might be something in store for the former middleweight champion in the 2016 Olympics.
Yahoo reported that "Spider" is planning to represent Brazil and compete in the Taekwondo competition at the 2016 Olympic Games, where Brazil is set to be the host country. On April 12, the Brazilian Taekwondo Confederation stated that Silva sent a letter to Carlos Fernandes, president of the said group, proposing to participate in behalf of Brazil.
In the letter which can be viewed on the CBTKD website, Silva stated, "Everyone knows that for a high performance athlete, the Olympic Games are the dream of every athlete and so, would be no different with me. When I was named the ambassador of the sport by President Carlos Fernandes, that feeling began to get even stronger and, being in my country, this Olympic spirit left me highly motivated."
He added in the letter, "It would be a great pleasure to be part of this golden team, (which is run by) serious institution led by President Carlos Fernandes. So, I registered my desire to represent Taekwondo and Brazil at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio with all my esteem, strength and honor."
Fox Sports reported that Silva is expected to personally meet with Fernandes within the week to talk about his possible participation. The federation did not indicate yet whether they will accept Silva's proposal but defined it as a "magnificent possibility".
Silva is a 5th dan black belt in taekwondo but is more of a Muay Thai kickboxer-based fighter. He is famous for his work ethic, quick mind in the Octagon and ability to employ different martial arts styles to win in exciting fashion. Before his many UFC matches, Silva can also be seen practicing taekwondo.
Silva wanted to compete in the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro since 2013, MMA Fighting noted. However, UFC president Dana White reportedly prevented him at that time.
At present, the Nevada Athletic Commission has temporarily suspended Silva after steroids were discovered in his system before and immediately after his match against Nick Diaz at UFC 183. Silva won the fight via unanimous decision but the win was withdrawn after he tested positive for drostanolone metabolites. On the other hand, Diaz tested positive for marijuana metabolites after their match, based on a report by Bloody Elbow. Silva is set to meet with the commission in May to discuss his future in the UFC.
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