Chael Sonnen: Chris Weidman is the best middleweight in the UFC

When he's not campaigning for a fight against Anderson Silva, or gearing up for one, Chael Sonnen is perhaps the most well spoken fighter on the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) roster.

That's why he's frequently tapped to be an analyst on FUEL TV for fight cards on that network. Such was the case last night when he joined Jay Glazer and Stephan Bonnar to discuss the events of UFC on FUEL TV 4 last night (Wed., July 11, 2012) in San Jose, California.

Sonnen, like the rest of us, watched Chris Weidman utterly decimate Mark Munoz in the main event at the HP Pavilion. He was impressed too. So much so, in fact, that made a bold declaration during the post-fight show.

"There is no way to deny what we just saw. Weidman is on a roll, he is tapping guys out, getting Fight of the Night, and doing everything he needs to do. Now he is playing with the big boys. Now he is in the main event. The test was passed with flying colors. Chris Weidman, present company included, you are the best middleweight in the UFC."

That's a pretty big compliment paid by the man widely considered to be the second best middleweight in the UFC, outside of Anderson Silva. Actually, that makes you wonder -- does Sonnen believe Weidman is even better than the 185-pound champion?

Maybe not so classy after all.

Either way, Weidman just may get the opportunity to prove whether or not he's better if the powers that be decide he's worthy of the next shot at "The Spider's" title. Weidman has already said he would solicit Sonnen for strategy, so maybe this is a match made in heaven.

Maniacs, is Sonnen being far too nice here? Or is Weidman really that damn good?