Anderson Silva Won't Defend Title January 2nd

Anderson Silva, the UFC Middleweight champion, will not face challenger Vitor Belfort on January 2nd due to a hand injury.

Silva's manager Ed Soares said, "The fight is still on; it just won't happen Jan. 2. The doctor wants Anderson to take more time to let the injury heal properly." Silva is coming off of a highlight reel KO of Forrest Griffin at UFC 101, his second fight in the UFC as a light heavyweight. Prior to the knockout Silva was heavily criticized for his lackluster performances against Patrick Cote and Thaleis Leites. Silva's scheduled opponent, Vitor Belfort gained a title shot after a first round stoppage against Rich Franklin in their fight at UFC 103. Vitor has previously fought in the UFC although the decision to give him a title shot after one fight caught many long time fans off guard. It is unknown at this time to what date the title fight between Vitor Belfort and Anderson Silva will be rescheduled.