Bisping claims middleweight division has never been stronger

British UFC star Michael Bisping believes Wanderlei Silva’s decision to move down to middleweight has made the division as strong as it has ever been.

Silva will fight Rich Franklin at UFC 99, before making his move to 185lbs.

Bisping admits he is fed up with the amount of UFC stars moving to his division.

He told The Sun: “Wanderlei’s coming down to middleweight and it’s a bit of a pain in the neck!

“I wish all these guys would sod off and stop moving down to middleweight!

“I remember about a year ago people were saying the middleweight division wasn’t too stacked, but now I think it’s anything but – there’s some ridiculous talent there now.

“He’s definitely a threat at middleweight. He’s a dangerous opponent, they don’t call him ‘The Axe Murderer’ for nothing!

“But I think Rich will win their fight. It’s going to be fantastic to watch – one for the MMA purists.

“Unfortunately Wanderlei’s a little bit chin weary – not taking anything away from him, the guy’s a legend – but I think Rich will do the job on the night.”

Tags: Rich Franklin, UFC, Wanderlei Silva