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.
Fresh materials — UFC
Ray Lewis reportedly in talks for Real American Freestyle wrestling match
National Football League legend Ray Lewis may soon step onto the wrestling mat for the first time since his high school days. Real American Freestyle wrestling is gaining traction, with several UFC fighters like Khamzat Chimaev, Arman Tsarukyan, and Colby Covington already competing. The p
Josh Hokit Seeks Title Fight Against Ciryl Gane After Aspinall Vacates UFC Gold
With Tom Aspinall vacating the UFC Heavyweight Championship, Josh Hokit is positioning himself for an undisputed title bout against Ciryl Gane. UFC CEO Dana White indicated plans to discuss Aspinall's title status after the Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn event. This followed reports of Aspinall
Alexandre Pantoja Warns Joshua Van Ahead of UFC 331 Rematch: "We'll See If You're the True Champion"
Alexandre Pantoja has issued a stark warning to Joshua Van before their UFC 331 rematch. Their first bout in December at UFC 323 concluded in just 26 seconds due to an arm injury sustained by Pantoja. This premature ending halted Pantoja's title defense and his reign. Despite the first figh
Khamzat Chimaev to Take Break If No Fight This Year
Khamzat Chimaev plans to take a short break from fighting if he doesn't compete in October or December. The UFC fighter mentioned ongoing injuries that require treatment, noting he enters every bout with some health issue. Chimaev also revealed he frequently falls ill and has undergone mu
Tom Aspinall Awaits Eye Healing, May Need Fourth Surgery Amid UFC Title Vacancy
Tom Aspinall faces another setback, hoping to avoid more surgery. UFC CEO Dana White discussed Aspinall's status as heavyweight champion with reporters. Following this, Aspinall stated he has relinquished the UFC heavyweight title due to an accident affecting his right eye, whi
Conor McGregor Criticizes Max Holloway's Mercy in UFC 329 Fight Stoppage
Conor McGregor voiced his disapproval of Max Holloway's actions during their UFC 329 main event, specifically his reaction to McGregor sustaining a serious leg injury. McGregor's comeback fight, planned after a four-year hiatus, ended abruptly in July. He landed awkwardly after a jumping kick atte