Dana White Would Prefer Wanderlei Silva to Retire Following UFC 139

Following a victory over Cung Le, Wanderlei Silva has extended his UFC career for the foreseeable future. 

"The Axe Murderer" was under the proverbial microscope at UFC 139 after losing four of his last six bouts. And while Silva did record only his third win in five years, UFC President Dana White doesn't believe the Brazilian is a contender any longer. 

White told reporters during the post-fight press conference that he would rather see Silva finish his career than continue fighting.

"Wanderlei's a warrior—he's been around forever and people love him," White said. "I love him—he's been great to (the UFC) and to the sport, and I'm not going to have that stuff happen."

White was forced in a similar position when his close friend and former UFC light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell was on the latter end of his career, losing the last four of his six bouts by knockout. Like Liddell, White has been vocal about Silva's recent losses and expresses his concern regarding the former PRIDE champion's long-term health. 

"I just don't want to see anyone hurt—that's all I care about," he said. 

However, despite White's best efforts to convince Silva to hang up his gloves, ultimately, the UFC boss said he will not force anyone into an uncomfortable position. In fact, White admits he'd be happy if Silva decided to end his career on his own terms.

"He looked good (Saturday). I'd be cool with (him walking away after the win), too. I would never try to talk somebody out of retirement," he said.