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For FloCombat via A.G Fight



Antonio Silva was one of the most notable fighters affected by the ban of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) by many major MMA events.



After knocking out the likes of Fedor Emelianenko, Alistair Overeem and Travis Browne in Strikeforce and the UFC, the Brazilian accumulated six losses with only one victory when the treatment was banned.



Failing a drug test after an apparent miscommunication regarding his treatment, Silva still believes he was treated poorly when he was accused of being a cheater even though his need for TRT was confirmed.



"My case was proven," Silva stated. "We showed the lawyers and the doctors that my condition was clinical, and that I had already done two surgeries for the improvement and correction of a benign tumor that I had. God knows what he does, we close a window and he opens a door. I know I will not fight for a lifetime, but I have to be in good health first when I stop fighting. Continue with a healthy life."



Since leaving the UFC last September after being knocked out by Roy Nelson, "Bigfoot" decided to venture into Russia. But contrary to what one might imagine, parting ways with the biggest promotion in MMA was one of the best things that have occurred to him in his career. What Silva enjoys the most about his new home -- apart from getting paid much more money, according to him -- is that he can control his health better now.



"I just have to thank the UFC for all the affection and the opportunities they gave me, since I've had six or seven major fights in the organization, but I can't help but say that one of the best things that happened to me recently was leaving the UFC," Silva said. "I can take care of my personal life, my health and continue to do what I love the most. I am very happy in Russia, with the event that I signed (with) and with earning twice as much as I earned in the UFC."



Having not fought since November of 2016, when he lost his debut for Titov Boxing Promotion in Russia, Silva also revealed the date of his next performance.



Silva will be facing Vitaly Minakov next June, a fight that he hopes will demonstrate his physical evolution resulting from using TRT again. The heavyweight also didn't hide his desire to meet Fedor Emelianenko in the cage once more. Silva scored a stunning upset over the Russian legend back in 2011, and believes he could repeat his performance should they cross paths once more.



"No doubt, I think that since I signed for three fights with the event that Fedor is in," Silva responded when asked if he'd like another fight against the Russian hero. "He is a great legend, and every MMA athlete who had the opportunity to watch him likes him. [...] On June 2, I will be back in Russia again to fight a guy who has a record of 19-0, he's the new sensation of the country."







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