Gerald Meerschaert Sets New UFC Record, Surpassing Anderson Silva’s Finishes
The middleweight division in the UFC is often synonymous with the legendary Anderson Silva, a former long-reigning champion and an undeniable finisher during his Hall of Fame career. Any fighter who manages to eclipse one of Silva’s impressive records rightfully earns bragging rights. However, for the veteran Gerald Meerschaert, this particular achievement is a moment to acknowledge, but not one he’s dwelling on excessively.
Gerald Meerschaert’s Historic Accomplishment
Gerald Meerschaert, a seasoned UFC fighter since 2016, etched his name in the history books on Saturday night. At UFC on ESPN 62 in Las Vegas, Meerschaert secured his 12th finish in the UFC middleweight division, officially surpassing Anderson Silva’s record. This momentous victory came in the second round against Edmen Shahbazyan. Despite the significance of the record, Meerschaert expressed a pragmatic outlook, stating that he’s focused on one fight at a time and not overly consumed by the accomplishment in the immediate aftermath. He acknowledged the honor of being mentioned in the same breath as elite fighters like Silva and Demian Maia, recognizing it as a remarkable feat.
A Fight of Resilience and Strategic Prowess
The path to Meerschaert’s record-setting finish was far from straightforward. In the second round, he found himself in a precarious position, nearly being finished by Shahbazyan. Shahbazyan managed to drop Meerschaert and unleashed a barrage of head strikes, many of which Meerschaert valiantly blocked with his arms. This dangerous sequence could have easily led to a different outcome, but Meerschaert remained composed, anticipating that Shahbazyan would eventually tire. His prediction proved accurate, as Meerschaert was then able to transition, locking in an arm-triangle choke that secured the victory at 412 seconds into the second round. While not the cleanest performance he’s had, Meerschaert emphasized that overcoming adversity is part of the sport’s excitement and a testament to his will to win.
Looking Ahead and Reflecting on Legacy
Meerschaert’s perspective on his new record is rooted in a long-term view of his career. He admitted that while it’s „nice to say“ and will be amusing to share with his children later in life, his immediate focus remains on his upcoming bouts. He understands that personal satisfaction will come with retirement, when he can truly reflect on his place in UFC history. Meerschaert’s fighting philosophy is clear as long as he’s conscious, he believes he has a path to victory. He successfully weathered the storm against Shahbazyan by blocking effectively and finding a way to survive, demonstrating his strategic intelligence and unwavering determination. This mindset has served him well throughout his extensive career and will likely continue to guide him as he adds more chapters to his UFC story.
