Anderson Silva defeats Chael Sonnen with submission in 2010 comeback

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 10:50 PM

Last updated Aug 7, 2026

Anderson Silva defeats Chael Sonnen with submission in 2010 comeback
Summary

On August 7, 2010, at UFC 117 in Oakland, California, Anderson Silva faced Chael Sonnen. Sonnen dominated the fight for four rounds until Silva executed a submission with two minutes left in the fifth round, forcing Sonnen to tap out. Silva's performance secured another title defense, bringing his total to seven. The bout is remembered as one of the greatest comebacks in MMA history and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2024. This fight preceded a rematch at UFC 148 where Silva again defeated Sonnen.

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By the Numbers
  • Silva faced Sonnen at UFC 117 in Oakland.
  • Sonnen dominated the first four rounds.
  • Silva won with a submission in round five.
  • The fight was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2024.
  • Silva later defeated Sonnen again at UFC 148.
Latest Updates
  • 10:50 PMYahoo SportsThis Date in MMA History: Anderson Silva makes Chael Sonnen choke
What they're saying
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It's been 16 years since Anderson Silva pulled off a Hall of Fame-worthy comeback against Chael Sonnen.

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