[VIDEO] Wand Trains with Machida and Werdum to Prep for Ace

STUDIO MMA, VENICE, CA — At 35 years old, and with 47 fights to his credit, Wanderlei Silva isn’t getting any younger.  Prior to dropping to middleweight, where he fights right now, “The Axe Murderer” was on a 1 and 6 run, losing to Rich Franklin, Chuck Liddell, Rampage Jackson, Dan Henderson, and Mirko Cro Cop.  Many observers saw the Brazilian’s storied fight career coming to a disappointing close. However, at 185 pounds, Wand [34-11-1 1NC MMA] has seen somewhat of a turnaround, albeit not a complete one.  He decisioned Michael Bisping, lost a brief and over-eager slugfest with Chris Leben, and then finished Cung Le in a gratifying strike-fest at UFC 139.

Silva now preps for a rematch against Rich “Ace” Franklin [28-6-0 1NC MMA], a fight that will take place at a 190-pound catchweight.  This will be a reprise of their 195-pound catchweight brawl that thrilled German fans at UFC 99 in 2009 and earned the men Fight-Of-The-Night bonuses.  Can The Axe Murderer find the magic again?

Wanderlei recently posted a fascinating and enjoyable sparring video featuring Blackhouse training partners Lyoto Machida and Fabricio Werdum, and coaches Rafael Cordeiro and Kenny Johnson.