Former UFC light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida put on a stunning performance over the weekend. Now the former title holder has come forward with a message for his defeated opponent.
“The Dragon” went toe-to-toe with MMA legend Vitor Belfort on the live pay-per-view main card of UFC 224 on Saturday, May 12. The two Brazil natives faced off in Rio de Janeiro in a highly anticipated match up.
However, Machida made short work of his opponent, ultimately earning a stunning front kick knockout over Belfort. Belfort would later place his gloves in the center of the octagon and announce his retirement from the sport.
Taking to Instagram, Machida has since provided a message to his fellow former title holder and MMA veteran. Check out a translation of the statement below:
“Respect first!
“Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) preach respect above all else. How proud to witness two legends making history and leaving the octagon like that. Congratulations,”
