“Makes Jones and Lesnar Look Clean” – Vitor Belfort’s HOF Induction Gets ‘TRT’ Verdict as Fans Left Divided at UFC 315

It’s official! Vitor Belfort’s name is set to be immortalized in the UFC Hall of Fame later this year! With a career record of 26 wins and 14 losses, the former UFC light-heavyweight champion was a true phenomenon in his prime. At just 19 years old, Belfort announced his arrival with a stunning victory in the UFC 12 Heavyweight Tournament in 1997, signaling the beginning of his meteoric rise. That 44-second KO of Wanderlei Silva at UFC 17.5 is etched in every MMA fan’s memory!

Known for his raw power and explosive speed, he dominated the competition, though his career was not without controversy. Accusations of ste—d use and TRT misuse have shadowed his achievements, leaving fans divided on his legacy. The Brazilian fighter also landed in Japan as he thought that his career would bloom under the Pride FC. After his adventure in the East, ‘The Phenom’ returned to the UFC in 2002. In 2004, he defeated Randy Couture badly in round 1 at UFC 46: Supernatural to claim the light-heavyweight belt.

But he soon lost his title in the rematch, as Couture defeated him in the same year. After a series of defeats, Belfort left the UFC again to fight under different promotions such as Pride, CageSide, Affliction, and others, but he again returned to the UFC in September 2009. In his comeback fight, Belfort defeated Rich Franklin in the first round, delivering a powerful roar about his return.

After that, he fought in many high-profile fights both in the middleweight as well as light-heavyweight divisions. Some of his notable fights are against Anderson Silva, Jon Jones, Michael Bisping, Dan Henderson, Luke Rockhold, and many more. His victory against ‘The Count’ was a controversial one, as not only did Belfort injure Bisping so badly that he lost his eye, but he was also accused of utilizing TRT for the fight. As many veterans have said! 2013 was Belfort’s year! Or TRT Belfort’s year, to be precise.

His career has been a roller-coaster ride, and now that he’s been inducted into the Hall of Fame, fans might have some differing opinions. Let’s take a look at them!

MMA fans stand divided as Vitor Belfort receives Hall of Fame status at UFC 315

When the UFC announced that they would be inducting Vitor Belfort into the Hall of Fame, ‘The Phenom’ was reduced to tears as his years of battle were finally paying off. However, some fans had a different opinion—one even sarcastically remarked, “TRTears.” Well, why did the fan say this? Belfort belongs to the ‘wild west’ era of MMA and has been accused of using ste–ids on multiple occasions.

Interestingly, back in 2006, after his loss against Dan Henderson at Pride 32: The Real Deal, Belfort tested positive for elevated levels of testosterone, which led to a suspension and fine. This incident marred his reputation to the lowest. Looking at another fan stated, “TRT Vitor was special.”

Both Jon Jones and Brock Lesnar have been flagged by testing agencies for using banned substances to enhance their performance, but according to one fan, even their drug use was nothing compared to what Belfort was doing, “The only man that makes Jones and Lesnar look clean.”

Another fan added, “I mean he took Bisping’s eye while using illegal PEDs… Good fighter, but also a cheater.” ‘The Phenom’s victory over Michael Bisping at UFC 152 back in 2012 was a controversial one. Belfort submitted Bisping with an armbar, which was also a point of contention. Some of the fans, as well as analysts, believe that the Brazilian got his strength and conditioning during this period due to substance overdose, especially since he was competing at a high level after years of injury struggles.

Moreover, another fan bashed Vitor Belfort, “Without PED he was nothing Even with ped he quit and give up all the time.” Last but not the least, bringing Jon Jones to the equation, a fan added, “If TRT vitor getting HOF’s then Jon jones will get a royalty induction by Dana himself, all while wearing a ‘Jon Jones is the Goat’ shirt.”

After the UFC banned the usage of TRT back in 2014, Belfort’s performance became a subject of debate for the MMA fans as well as analysts. The fighter appeared less dominant. Many believed that it was due to his age and due to his body giving up, but others believed that it was due to the lack of TRT in his system. Regardless, now that he has been inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame, his name has been immortalized. What are your thoughts about the Brazilian? State your opinion in the comments below.