Anderson Silva is a Brazilian mixed martial artist and professional boxer, widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. Competing professionally for over two decades, Silva became the longest-reigning UFC Middleweight Champion and set numerous records through technical striking, composure, and consistency. This biography covers Anderson Silva’s age, height, family background, ethnicity, nationality, career, net worth, and other key personal and professional details.
Quick Profile
- Full Name: Anderson da Silva
- Nickname: The Spider
- Profession: Mixed Martial Artist, Professional Boxer
- Date of Birth: 14 April 1975
- Age: 51 years old (as of 2026)
- Birthplace: São Paulo, Brazil
- Nationality: Brazilian (naturalized United States citizen in July 2019)
- Gender: Male
- Zodiac Sign: Aries
- Ethnicity: Brazilian
- Religion: Not publicly known
- Fighting Stance: Southpaw
- Divisions: Welterweight, Middleweight, Light Heavyweight
- Years Active (MMA): 1997–2020
- Years Active (Boxing): 1998–2005, 2021–present
Early Life and Background
Anderson Silva was born in São Paulo, Brazil, to Juarez and Vera Lucia da Silva. Due to financial hardship, he spent much of his childhood in Curitiba, where he was raised in a modest household alongside his brother, Christian Edmundo Silva.
Growing up, Silva worked odd jobs, including selling ice cream, to help support his family. During his youth, he lived with his aunt and uncle—his uncle being a police officer—who helped instill discipline and structure in his life.
He began training in martial arts at the age of twelve, starting with taekwondo. Early exposure to multiple disciplines laid the foundation for his adaptable and technical fighting style.
Amateur Career and Early Competition
Silva developed his skills through regional competition in Brazil before gaining international experience in Japan. These early bouts exposed him to various rule sets and fighting styles.
In August 2001, he faced Shooto champion Hayato Sakurai in Japan, marking one of his earliest appearances against elite international competition.
Professional Career
Anderson Silva made his professional MMA debut in 1997, beginning a career that spanned multiple organizations and continents. His international experience distinguished him from many fighters who developed solely within domestic circuits.
A major career turning point came in 2006 when Silva signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Later that year, he defeated Rich Franklin at UFC 64 to win the UFC Middleweight Championship.
Silva defended the title ten times and held it for a record-breaking 2,457 days, the longest championship reign in UFC history. He officially left the UFC in 2020 and later transitioned back into professional boxing.
- Total MMA Fights: 46
- Wins: 34
- Losses: 11
Fighting Style and Competitive Identity
Silva is known for precision striking, elite timing, and distance management. His southpaw stance, head movement, and counterattacking ability influenced modern MMA striking by emphasizing efficiency and creativity over constant pressure.
Teams, Gyms, and Trainers
Teams
- Chute Boxe Academy (1997–2003)
- Muay Thai Dream Team (2003–2006)
- Black House
- Team Nogueira
- Killer Bees Muay Thai College
Trainers
- Muay Thai: Rafael Cordeiro
- Boxing: Josuel Distak, Luiz Dorea
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, Sylvio Behring, Ramon Lemos
- Wrestling: Mark Munoz
Martial Arts Ranks
- Black Prajied – Muay Thai
- 3rd-degree Black Belt – Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- 5th Dan Black Belt – Taekwondo
- Black Belt – Judo
- Yellow Rope – Capoeira
Personal Life
Despite his international fame, Anderson Silva has kept his personal life largely private. He married Dayane Silva in 2007, and together they have five children. Family has remained an important source of support throughout his career, especially during injuries, career transitions, and life beyond his UFC tenure, as he balances his time between Brazil and the United States.
- Marital Status: Married
- Spouse: Dayane Silva (married in 2007)
- Children: Five – Gabriel, Kalyl, Kaory, Kaunan, João Vitor
Physical Measurements
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 185 lb (84 kg)
- Reach: 77.5 in (197 cm)
- Eye Color: Black
- Hair Color: Black
Net Worth
Anderson Silva’s net worth reflects long-term earnings accumulated over a lengthy career rather than short-term financial peaks. His income has come from UFC championship purses, professional boxing bouts, sponsorships, endorsements, and public appearances, allowing him to maintain financial stability even after stepping away from full-time MMA competition.
- Estimated Net Worth: $15 to $16 million (as of 2026)
- Annual Salary: Approximately $600k
Social Media
Anderson Silva is active on major social media platforms, where he shares updates related to his training, professional appearances, personal milestones, and moments with family. His social media presence allows fans to stay connected with his life after peak competition while maintaining a balanced and controlled public profile.
- Instagram: @spiderandersonsilva
- X (Twitter): @SpiderAnderson
- Facebook: AndersonSilvaOfficial
Trivia & Facts
- Holds the longest title reign in UFC history (2,457 days).
- Defended the UFC Middleweight Championship ten times.
- Recorded a 16-fight UFC win streak.
- Began martial arts training at age 12.
- Worked odd jobs during childhood due to financial hardship.
- Became a naturalized United States citizen in July 2019.
- Transitioned to professional boxing after leaving the UFC in 2020.
- Inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2023.
FAQs
How old is Anderson Silva?
He is 51 years old as of 2026.
Who is Anderson Silva’s wife?
He is married to Dayane Silva, a former Olympic gymnast.
What is Anderson Silva’s net worth?
As of 2026, his estimated net worth is around $15 to 16 million.
Why is Anderson Silva important in MMA history?
He is recognized for his record-breaking championship reign, technical innovation, and lasting influence on modern mixed martial arts.
