UFC 142: Aldo vs. Mendes reportedly draws 23 million viewers in Brazil

Despite not having Anderson Silva in the main event slot, UFC 142: Aldo vs. Mendes still generated an incredible viewing number in Brazil.

With the show starting at nearly 2 a.m. local time, 23 million people tuned in to see Jose Aldo successfully defend his UFC featherweight title against Chad Mendes in the main event. Aldo, a Brazilian, stormed out of the Octagon after his win and celebrated with a near-sellout crowd inside the HSBC Arena.

Vitor Belfort, another Brazilian, competed in the co-main event, downing Anthony Johnson.

According to Galvao Bueno, who commentated the event alongside Silva for a Brazilian station, the show generated the 23 million people, giving it an average of 14.6 rating and a 70 percent share for the night. Bueno, in an interview with Sherdog, added, “I have to congratulate Mr. Joe Silva for making up such an amazing card.”

The UFC is planning a return to Brazil later this summer, with rumors of Silva facing the winner of Chael Sonnen-Mark Munoz continuing to gain steam. “The Spider” is currently on the shelf with multiple injuries, so it is unknown if he will be ready to fight in June.

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MMATraining Take: The atmosphere the Brazilian faithful bring to an event that begins well after midnight local time is incredible. The fact that so many attended and tuned in shows you just how important MMA is to the Brazilian community.