On Saturday June 26 in San Jose, Calif. one of the most popular and highly regarded fighters in the world will once again compete. Over his long career, he has faced multiple challenges and this fight promises to be no exception. He has faced NCAA champion wrestlers, world grappling champions, world champion kick boxers, giants, and former UFC champions. Through it all he has emerged victorious and remains the most feared force in mixed martial arts. He is “The Last Emperor.” He is Fedor Emelianenko. MMA Spot’s J. Andrew Yount tracked down the world’s top ranked heavyweight to discuss his up coming fight and his overall impact on the sport and his native Russia. For years Fedor’s name and reputation have ruled the world of mixed martial arts. He has become the benchmark to which all other champions are compared. Even after the demise of Pride, and UFC added many of the best heavyweights in the world to its already competitive roster, Fedor’s name was still the one name by which all heavyweights were compared to—even compelling two former UFC champions to leave the organization for opportunities to face the legendary fighter. Even today, when a heavyweight in Strikeforce wins, they call for a fight with Emelianenko ahead of seeking a chance to fight for the title. This weekend’s opponent, Fabricio Werdum, wants nothing more than to succeed where others have failed. However, he must contend with a champion that has very few holes in his game and has had months to prepare for this bout. With an almost guaranteed shot at the Strikeforce Heavyweight Champion Alistair Overeem on the horizon, Emelianenko still refuses to discuss it in any form. Although pressed in several ways to discuss Overeem or any other potential opponents Emelianenko replied only, “Right now I am focused on Fabricio only. He is my current opponent and he is a very good fighter. I am not looking past him.” http://www.mmaspot.net/index.php/re...fedor_emelianenko_ready_to_fight_with_anyone/
