Jean Silva believes he is the main reason for the growing excitement surrounding UFC 314. According to Silva, the anticipation for the event significantly increased due to his involvement and promotional efforts.
Following his recent victory, Silva`s callout of Bryce Mitchell quickly led to the UFC scheduling their fight for April 12. Both fighters participated in a press conference in early March to promote their upcoming bout. At the press conference, instead of addressing Mitchell`s controversial statements, Silva chose to humorously mock Mitchell`s flat Earth theory by bringing a globe.
“This fight has become the people’s main event because I promoted it,” Silva stated. “Let’s be honest, who else is generating this level of attention for UFC 314? When was the last time we saw a press conference this engaging? It`s reminiscent of Conor McGregor`s events. I embrace this role, it`s something I`ve always envisioned for myself, and I plan to do even more in the future.”
Silva also noted that Mitchell`s controversial remarks have inadvertently garnered him support, even among American fans. He jokingly referred to Mitchell as a “hillbilly” and mentioned plans to celebrate his anticipated victory and bonus with a “hillbilly party.”
Despite some social media users urging Silva to punish Mitchell for his comments, Silva clarified that he harbors no animosity towards his opponent. He expressed respect for Mitchell, stating, “I never had any hate for him. From now until our fight, I wish him well. I hope his dreams come true, though on the 12th, it will be my hand raised, not his. He will contribute to my success. I don’t feel the hatred others might feel.”
Silva further explained his fighting philosophy: “I don’t fight with hate. In my fights, I`m not one to continue attacking an opponent who no longer wants to fight. Bryce will quit during our fight. I won’t be mean or cowardly to keep hitting him. He will be defeated like others before him, and like many more to come. I believe I am the best, regardless of what anyone thinks. This is my path, and I am content with myself.”
Following the press conference, Mitchell made a surprising social media post claiming Silva was sending “demons” to haunt his dreams. Silva remained unfazed by these comments.
“I believe he’s just promoting the fight in his own way,” Silva commented. “He’s a ranked fighter, he knows what he’s doing. He might have some personal issues, considering some of the things he’s said, but it doesn’t bother me. My only concern is that he shows up on April 12th.”
Silva concluded, “The only thing that would bother me is if he doesn’t show up. If that happens, I’ll have to find him at his gym. He needs to be there on the 12th. He can say whatever he wants, even about my family. As long as he shows up to fight, nothing else matters.”
