Jean Silva has made it clear that a friendship with Bryce Mitchell is not possible, even though their intense rivalry was settled in the octagon back in April.
After a period of controversial actions outside the cage by Mitchell, Silva publicly challenged him, leading to their fight at UFC 314 earlier this year. The Brazilian fighter delivered a dominant performance, securing a submission victory that seemed to put an end to this particular chapter for the featherweight division.
Typically, following a fierce confrontation in the cage, fighters often show mutual respect once a winner is decided. However, while Jean Silva acknowledges Mitchell`s skills as an athlete, he expressed no desire for any personal connection with him.
Jean Silva Firm on No Friendship After Grudge Match
The build-up to the fight between Jean Silva and Bryce Mitchell was particularly unpleasant, largely fueled by Mitchell`s behavior beforehand. This tension culminated in an intense fight, though it was not a competitive one, as Silva completely controlled the action.
Since the bout, the two have kept their distance. Silva recently elaborated on his stance: “We`re not friends and we are never going to be. We respect each other as athletes and fighters but that’s it. I don’t like him as a person, the way he behaves. It’s actually just the way he carries himself in general.”
Bryce Mitchell Considers Bantamweight Move After Silva Fight
Following his loss to Silva, Mitchell has been noticeably less active on social media. Despite this, he is planning his return to competition and indicated that he intends to move down to the bantamweight division. He admitted that featherweights, such as Jean Silva, are simply too large and powerful for him.
Mitchell explained his thinking: “I pretty much made up my mind right after this last fight. The guy was so much bigger than me, and I really felt it in the second round. In the first round, obviously I could tell he was bigger and stronger, but it was really in the second round where I felt it. I think that I’m a ’35er. My weight’s already come down quite a bit since I started dieting. I got this call two weeks ago, I think. So, I’m excited about it. Everything’s going good.”
Percy Harlow