The upcoming boxing exhibition event starring legends like Floyd Mayweather and Anderson Silva has been called off following a piece of tragic news. Recently, the president of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, passed away on Friday, May 13.

As a result, the country is in mourning and the much-anticipated boxing event in Dubai stands canceled. The event featured boxing legend Floyd Mayweather and MMA legend Anderson Silva in separate fights.

Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather was facing his former sparring partner Don Moore on the Burj Al Arab hotel helipad in a unique exhibition fight. Whereas former UFC middleweight champion and MMA legend, ‘The Spider’ paired up with Bruno Machado.

However, according to the sources, the event will no longer go through after the recent tragic news.

The 47-year-old former MMA fighter got released from his UFC contract in November 2020, following his defeat against Uriah Hall.

5 Things You Need to Know About Anderson Silva

After that, Silva turned to professional boxing. He defeated Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and former UFC light heavyweight champion Tito Ortiz in a row to kick-start his boxing career. Although, he won’t be continuing his streak this weekend.

Anderson Silva thanks Floyd Mayweather

The former UFC middleweight champion and legend Anderson Silva was all set to face Bruno Machado on May 14, 2022. He appeared at a press conference with Floyd Mayweather for the same.

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Don Moore, Bruno Machado, and other fighters also accompanied them. Silva left the UFC after having disputes with UFC president Dana White. He thanked everyone for attending and giving him an opportunity.

“… thank you for everybody for come to see the show, you know and thank you. Thank you for trust me and give me opportunity for showing my respect for boxing.”

He further added, “I’m so excited, I’m so excited. It’s an amazing event here in Dubai. This is my second home and I’m so happy to be here.”

While saying this, he turned towards Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather and shook his hand as if to thank him. He left the UFC after he felt disrespected by the promotion despite having an incredible legacy. According to Silva, he earned more money in the Julio Cesar Chavez Jr fight than he made in his last three UFC fights combined.

WATCH THIS STORY: Top five records held by Anderson Silva in the UFC

What are your views on the canceled Floyd Mayweather – Anderson Silva fight week? Let us know in the comments section.