Fedor Emelianenko interested in boxing showdown with Mike Tyson

11 August 2023

The desire for a thrilling new challenge continues to burn within Fedor Emelianenko, transcending his departure from MMA and venturing into another realm of combat sports.

Back in February, the spotlight was on Emelianenko as he faced Ryan Bader in a Bellator heavyweight title showdown. This encounter was heralded as the climactic chapter in the saga of "The Last Emperor." However, fate dealt him a swift blow, with Emelianenko succumbing to a first-round knockout.

In the aftermath of this bout, an elaborate tribute was orchestrated to commemorate his storied career and bid farewell to the sport. Yet, the tale took an unexpected twist. Despite embracing retirement in principle, Emelianenko unveiled a fresh ambition during an interview with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour. While his MMA journey might have reached its conclusion, the legendary 46-year-old fighter expressed a newfound aspiration to step into the boxing ring.

“We watched the fight on TV of Roy Jones Jr. vs. Mike Tyson. Mike Tyson would be an interesting fight. He has a big name, he’s a legend. ... It would be interesting because you can see a lot of his videos on YouTube and all over the place, he’s still in good shape. He still works pads, he still has that same power,” he said.

Emelianenko's legacy is etched in the annals of greatness, his prowess solidifying his place as one of the finest fighters in history. For nearly a decade spanning the 2010s, he reigned as the undisputed heavyweight champion, leaving an indelible mark on the combat sports landscape.

In the present moment, Emelianenko divulges that he and his team are merely embarking on the initial stages of plotting his transition. They are immersed in the nascent stages of strategy, contemplating the identity of his inaugural opponent. However, one name stands out among the possibilities.

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In the intricate tapestry of Emelianenko's career evolution, a new chapter beckons, one that unfurls within the boxing realm. The stage is set, and anticipation looms as he endeavors to make his mark once again, guided by a resolute vision and an unparalleled legacy.