Fedor Emelianenko Remains Open to Fighting at 50 for the Right Offer: “I Can Still Compete”
Fedor Emelianenko, approaching his 50th birthday, has not closed the door on a potential fighting return.
The fighter, last seen in February 2023 losing to Ryan Bader for the Bellator Heavyweight Championship, acknowledged that a comeback is possible under the right circumstances.
Emelianenko, who celebrates his 50th birthday on September 28, told MMAJunkie’s Mike Bohn that he continues to train and would consider a return if a worthwhile proposition emerges. "I keep training," Emelianenko stated. "I'm coaching my team, so I keep training. Competition-wise, if it’s going to be a good offer, and it makes sense, why not (return)? I can compete still."
He also expressed interest in boxing, noting that he has worked on the discipline and finds it appealing.
During his time away from competition, Emelianenko has mentored Vadim Nemkov, the current PFL heavyweight titleholder. Nemkov is set to defend his belt against Sergey Bilostenniy in Dubai on November 14.
Emelianenko recently attended the launch event for Scott Coker’s new promotion, Ki MMA, scheduled to debut in the first quarter of 2027. The launch party featured several fighters Coker has previously worked with.
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