Jean Silva has clearly stated that becoming friends with Bryce Mitchell is not an option, even though their intense rivalry seemingly concluded with their fight in April.
Following a period of controversy outside the octagon, Mitchell was challenged by Silva for a bout at UFC 314 earlier this year. The Brazilian fighter completely dominated the contest, securing a submission victory and effectively sidelining the controversial star from the featherweight division.
Typically, regardless of how heated a rivalry might be, fighters often show respect once the match is over and a clear winner is decided. However, despite acknowledging the American`s skills as an athlete, Silva expressed zero interest in establishing any form of relationship with Mitchell.
Silva Uninterested in Friendship After Grudge Match
The build-up to the Jean Silva and Bryce Mitchell fight was particularly unpleasant, largely due to Mitchell`s actions preceding the booking. This led to a highly charged encounter, though the fight itself lacked competitiveness as the Brazilian fighter was utterly dominant.
Speaking recently, Silva was unequivocal: “We are 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.”
Mitchell Considers Bantamweight Move After Silva Fight Highlights Size Disparity
Since the fight, Mitchell has been considerably less vocal on social media. However, he is planning his return to competition and indicated he will likely compete at bantamweight. He admitted that featherweight fighters like Silva are simply too large and powerful for him.
“I pretty much made up my mind right after this last fight,” Mitchell said in a recent interview regarding his scheduled comeback against Said Nurmagomedov in Abu Dhabi on July 26. “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 [135-pounder]. 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.”
