At a recent M-1 Global press conference, the promotions President Vadim Finkelstein had a chance to talk about his fighter, Fedor Emelianeko’s participation in the upcoming Strikeforce World Grand Prix heavyweight tournament.
Finkelstein will seek strict drug testing for the tournament noting that two of it’s participants, Josh Barnett and Fedor’s upcoming opponent Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva have both tested positive for steroid use in the past.
The original text was published and Russian (Sports.ru) which BloodyElbow.com cleaned up using Google translate, here is roughly what the M-1 Pres had to say.
“The only thing I said and will say, Fedor – is clean. He trains in the mountains, to improve endurance, and from the eight fighters, they have already caught two for doping – Josh Barnett and Antonio Silva. And surely someone else uses it, while they insist that it is all the same, to have equal strength.”
“We have never shied away from a particular battle, I just want for his fighter to be professional opponent, “not a chemist.” Today doping can significantly add speed and endurance. We just want all parties to the Grand Prix and potential rivals to play by the rules.”
“Terms of the tournament are determined, the grid is painted. Although, if Fedor will be in the semi-finals, I plan to insist on a thorough verification of the opponent on drugs. You know, I experienced a lot of problems when there was a struggle with Josh Barnett and Fedor, and do not want this situation again. I then had a lot of money to lose on the same advertising and a big problem with television. I want this time for everyone to know and be aware of the facts that they will test it very seriously.”