Source: MMA News
– With Affliction shutting down as a promotion, Fedor Emelianenko’s manager, Vadim Finkelchtein, says negotiations to bring Fedor to UFC are underway. The two side have had a rocky relationship in the past, with each blaming the other for not being able to reach a deal.
“This the moment of truth that the UFC has talked about,” Finkelchtein stated in a recent release issued by his company, M-1 Global. “Fedor and I are here in the States. If they want to come out and fly here, we are ready to conduct negotiations.”
Fedor also may end up appearing at M-1 Global’s Aug. 28 event, “M-1 Breakthrough.” Finkelchtein says Fedor is considering all his options.
“We are now with Fedor in the U.S., and we hope to make a decision about his next fight within the next few days,” Finkelchtein stated. “There are many business meetings and negotiations planned with all the major promotions. We will explore the possibility of Fedor fighting (Josh) Barnett and will even look into whether the fight can take place as soon as August (since Barnett has not been suspended).”
Finkelchtein was quick to note that they won’t just accept any conditions from UFC.
“Of course, it still doesn’t imply we are ready to accept any conditions they’ll throw at us,” Finkelchtein said. “We want to talk to the UFC about having Fedor compete against some of their fighters, but only within the framework of co-promotional efforts with M-1 Global.”
