Remember, way back in the day (three years is a long time for some), when all the talk was about if and when a recently ‘retired’ Randy Couture might square off with Fedor Emelianenko? Well, if you’ve been clinging to hope that someday, somehow, someway, that super fight might still take place, um, things aren’t looking so good.
Earlier today we passed along the news that in a recent press conference, Fedor announced that he’s interested in signing a new multi-fight deal with Strikeforce, possibly for 4-6 fights. Yup, as we noted this AM, based off the frequency of Fedor’s fights, the Russian could be pushing 40 by the time that contract’s fulfilled. As far as Couture, well the legendary fighter’s upcoming UFC 118 bout with James Toney is apparently the second last bout on his current UFC deal, but as it’s looking like right now, Captain America isn’t looking to move. In a recent interview with MMA Weekly, Couture had this to say about his upcoming free agency:
“I’m sure the UFC, if things continue the way they’ve been continuing, will want to sign me to a new contract,” Couture said on Thursday. “That’s a long ways away as far as I can see. Right now, I’m not looking past James Toney, and be ready for that.”
No surprises there. Couture also added that his future bouts will likely take place at 205. So, really, it’s looking like the closest we’ll get to Fedor vs. Randy is by simulating it on EA Sports MMA. On the plus side, it’s just awesome Couture’s not even talking retirement; we could still see him throwing down two years from now.