Fedor Emelianenko hasn’t exactly hit it well with the UFC, so it seems quite curious why the Russian fighter is suddenly interested in a rematch against Fabricio Werdum.
Before anything else, Emelianenko will have to sign a contract before moving ahead. And from there, the 38-year-old Russian may have to fight at least once before he could be considered as a possible opponent for Werdum.
Werdum and Emelianenko are no strangers to one another, both having fought way back in June 26, 2010. At that time, Werdum was able to recover from a knockdown in the first round and apply a deep triangle and armbar forcing the Russian to tap.
Before both fighters faced off, Emelianenko had already considered retirement due to age and his various injuries.
Emelianenko last fought on June 21, 2012, scoring a knockout in the first two minutes of the first round. The Russian would later announce his retirement after the fight.
He is currently under negotiations with the UFC and Bellator MMA and his sights are set on Werdum who had pulled off what many believe was a big upset.
When Werdum got word of Emelianenko’s plans, the UFC heavyweight champion seems to be more than willing to oblige. But before that happens, Emelianenko will have to do the necessary for the UFC to consider setting up that colossal match.
With Emelianenko no longer needing the co-promotion of M1 Global, negotiations are expected to go smoothly. However, there is an issue up in the air and this has something to do with his age.
At 38, his age could make it hard for him to land a contract. Though Werdum and Emelianenko are practically of the same age, the fact that he hasn’t fought for over three years could be another concern.
Other than that, Werdum is more than open to face Emelianenko should he strike a deal with the UFC.
"After losing to me and the next two debacles, fans quickly forgot about Fedor," Werdum explained. "Now it is very convenient moment for his return. He had not lost in a decade. He is a legend. He deserves a rematch, no question about it. I have no problem with facing him in my next fight."
Should Emelianenko gain the necessary stuff that would land him a UFC contract, a possible tiff between him and Werdum could happen in December.
It may happen at the planned Jose Aldo vs. Connor McGregor card to unify the featherweight titles. And as far as Werdum is concerned, he will fight anyone the UFC pits against him.
"I would like to fight on the Aldo vs. McGregor card if possible," Werdum said. "I think I could help draw in even more Brazilian fans to the fights as well as fans from Central America. Especially if it will be in Texas or Las Vegas. It doesn't matter who I fight. I'm the champ. If you are the best you should have no problem fighting anybody.
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