Despite the fact that he misplaced to Jake Paul in 2022, Anderson Silva has nothing however reward for the man … telling TMZ Sports activities El Gallo deserves extra credit score for not solely what he is achieved for boxing — however for his combating expertise, too.

We caught up with Spider to speak all about his upcoming bout in opposition to Tyron Woodley on the Dec. 19 card in Miami … and the fight sports activities legend says his major purpose is to show his respect for the game and his opponent.

Silva was initially slated to go up in opposition to Chris Weidman … however even with the switcharoo, he is feeling good and assured main as much as struggle evening.

In fact, Spider AND Woodley have fought and misplaced to Paul … and he stated he is watched his opponent’s bouts in opposition to the web famous person as a part of his coaching.

As for working with Most Helpful Promotions once more, Silva stated the group is doing an “superb job” … particularly with Paul “altering the sport” for fighters and followers.

Whereas of us might be tuning in to see two champs duke it out, all eyes may also be on Paul in opposition to Silva … and despite the fact that he did not give a prediction on the result, there was a ton of reward for the Drawback Little one.

Silva calls out “lazy individuals” who criticize Paul … ‘trigger they don’t seem to be placing in the identical quantity of labor he’s in his craft … they’re simply speaking.

“The individuals do not give the credit score to Jake, and the individuals want to do this. I respect Jake. He is an actual fighter.”