Rarely in MMA history has a potential super fight generated as much interest as one between former world champions Fedor Emelianenko and Brock Lesnar.
Emelianenko, who announced his retirement a week ago, is widely considered the greatest heavyweight of all time. Unfortunately, fans never got to see him compete in the Octagon.
With M-1 Global backing him, Emelianenko could never come to terms on an agreement with the UFC.
Whether it was co-promotion or a spot to attach its brand logo, M-1 Global sought more than just a contract for Emelianenko, and UFC President Dana White was always there to pull the plug on the offer.
Now, things are much different on Emelianenko’s negotiating side of the table. He is no longer the top heavyweight in the world with an “undefeated” record. He is 3-3 in his last six fights, with all three losses coming to current UFC fighters.
The retired Emelianenko recently appeared on HDNET’s “Inside MMA,” where he was asked if he would ever consider returning for a bout against Lesnar or another big-name opponent:
“I’m not promising, but anything is possible.”
Lesnar, on the other hand, still seems a bit confused about what he wants as a career. The former UFC heavyweight champion announced his retirement from MMA back in December 2011.
He has since returned to his old stomping grounds in the WWE to resume his pro-wrestling career.
Despite his affection for pro-wrestling, Lesnar will always be a real competitor deep down inside. His inner lust for competition has him uncharacteristically poking around at UFC events and having private chats with White.
Perhaps Lesnar wants to return, but he isn’t willing to fully commit to the UFC.
With Emelianenko and Lesnar both playing up possible returns, the UFC should consider handing out one-fight deals to give the fans what they want to see.
Neither fighter is even listed as a top-10 heavyweight. It isn’t like a top guy is coming in to knock off a top UFC guy and leave to seek greener pastures.
This is simply a rare opportunity given to the UFC to put together a blockbuster fight without any contractual binds to those involved.
With that said, there is always a chance M-1 steps in and ruins negotiations on Emelianenko’s side. The chance is also there that Lesnar isn’t truly serious about returning. This could all be a publicity stunt to soak up more spotlight or boost the WWE’s numbers.
Regardless, it would be a shame if the UFC refused to even at least explore the option of a Fedor vs. Brock fight.
If you think the upcoming rematch between Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen is big, just imagine the kind of numbers these two heavyweight icons could rake in.
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