UFC 147 Results: Rich Franklin Defeats Wanderlei Silva

In a legendary rematch years in the making, Rich Franklin has walked away from UFC 147 victorious over hometown favorite Wanderlei Silva.

After watching this card switch main events several times, the amazing Brazilian crowd was lucky enough to see what could be one of the last fights in Silva’s career. If this is indeed the end, there was no better place to close this chapter.

Fans can’t forget that these two men have a history that goes all the way back to UFC 99. It was on that card that Franklin beat Silva via decision in what was an absolute brawl, and this further proves Franklin’s dominance.

What It Means

For Rich Franklin it proves that the extended layoff with a shoulder injury may have spoiled some of the star’s career, but it is far from over. While Silva isn’t the man he was just a few years ago, he is still bona-fide tough.

Instead of heading to retirement, Franklin could be heading toward a No. 1 contender's match if he chooses to make that happen. With a long history in the UFC, Dana White would be more than happy to get Franklin that shot.

On the other hand, this likely could be the end of Silva being viewed as a relevant threat to a title in the UFC. After realizing his flawed jaw, Silva has changed his methods, but it just isn’t working.

What’s Next?

The most likely fight for Rich Franklin after beating Silva will be a matchup with the man Wanderlei was supposed to fight—Vitor Belfort.

Franklin lost to Belfort at UFC 103, but a rematch now would not only give the former middleweight champion a chance at redemption; it would prove Franklin needs a title shot.

For Silva, the loss means he needs to be smart and end his career here. The PRIDE legend has lost six of his last nine fights and is doing more damage to his legacy than anything else right now.

Check back for more on mixed martial arts as it comes, and don’t miss Bleacher Report’s UFC page or listen to Ring Rust Radio for all of the hot topics.

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