You don't get a nickname like "The Axe Murder" by fighting cautiously. You get it by cultivating a reputation of extreme aggression and bloodlust.
So, as the name implies, Silva is quite a dangerous striker. He has a full arsenal of weapons at his disposal, but is especially dangerous when he is able to get in close on his foes.
His ability to take damage has diminished over the past several years, but he recently demonstrated in victory over Brian Stann that he can still absorb as well as dish it out.
Sonnen is known for his wrestling, but he's proven himself capable on the feet. He isn't a particularly large threat to end a fight with his standup, but it is serviceable, both offensively and defensively.
That praise should not suggest Sonnen's striking is pretty, because it isn't. It's unconventional, to put it in flattering terms, awkward to put it more objectively.
But, fighting isn't about looking good, it's about being effective. And Sonnen's striking, though not wonderful, ranks as decent these days.
He doesn't has the quick-strike knockout power he used to, nor does he have the chin he once did. But considering Silva to be anything less than a dangerous striker would be a mistake.
Sonnen is a tough guy to knock out, and he could do some damage of his own, but this is Wanderlei's realm, and he holds an advantage here.
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