Although it should be taken strictly as a rumor until reported otherwise, TalkMMA reported via Twitter a rumor regarding Silva, the longtime UFC matchmaker, possibly parting ways with the company in the near future. Yes, UFC 3. That was back in the day of eight-man one-night tournaments, style vs. style, and fighters like Royce Gracie, Ken Shamrock, Kimo Leopoldo, and Keith Hackney ruled the roost. He will continue in his current role through the end of 2016, per speculation.
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Silva’s departure comes just days after the sale of the UFC to WME-IMG was finalized with the executive standing to make a significant amount of money as a result. Sherdog.com on Wednesday confirmed with a source close to the situation that Silva will retire from his position. Most people assume that making fights is Dana White’s job, but he’s not that involved.
I didn’t believe it when I heard it so I sought him out for confirmation, Joe Silva will be leaving the UFC. UFC, as well as the typically tight-lipped Silva, have yet to announce his departure. Shelby is expected to remain with the company and will probably see his role expanded in Silva’s absence.
Silva originally became the UFC’s matchmaker before Zuffa LLC bought the company from SEG in 2001.
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Over the last few years, Silva has been the primary matchmaker for the lightweight division and above, while former WEC matchmaker Sean Shelby has handled setting up fights for featherweight and below.
