Anderson Silva has just re-signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), extending his already legendary career with 15 more fights.

The former middleweight champion just agreed to a new 15-fight deal last Thursday, when he met and shared a meal with UFC President Dana White and CEO Lorenzo Fertitta.

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Initially, he had seven fights left in the UFC, not including his upcoming fight against Nick Diaz. However, that deal was scrapped and they agreed upon a new one.

He also announced that he would be severing ties with sports apparel juggernaut Nike. He thanked them for helping him reach his dreams. He hinted though about a possible deal with rival company Adidas as a new venture.

In an interview with Combate.com, Silva said that his decision will probably make his family go crazy. He also indicated that his decision also drove White a little crazy as well.

All this craziness isn't really a surprise.

Silva is 39 years old. There are not a lot of fighters in the UFC at that age who last much longer and who compete in the higher echelons of the organization.

While there are some who shine through their division - like UFC heavyweight Mark Hunt who at 40-years of age will challenge for the interim title soon - 15 fights is a lot for an aging fighter.

There is also some concern regarding Silva's recent injury when he broke his tibia and fibula after current middleweight champion, Chris Weidman, checked it with his knee.

However, Silva says he has recovered well and is feeling good in his training camp.

He will be facing Diaz in the main event spot for UFC 183, on January 31, 2015.

Tagsanderson silva, UFC, 15-fight deal, dana white, Nike