Strikeforce
M-1 Global denies rumor Fedor Emelianenko had been cut from Strikeforce by Zuffa
Mar 31, 2011 - 1:05:22 PM M-1 Global denies rumor Fedor Emelianenko had been cut from Strikeforce by Zuffa

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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

A rumor has been making the rounds today regarding Fedor Emelianenko's status with Strikeforce now that it has been overtaken by Zuffa, but it's a rumor that M-1 Global has now vehemently shot down.

In a report from the Russian website LifeSports.ru, it was stated that Zuffa officials had refused to renew Emelianenko's Strikeforce contract and were cutting him. Had that legitimately been the case, "The Last Emperor" likely would have been done in the sport.

However, M-1 Global's Evgeni Kogan says the report was simply fabricated by the LifeSports.ru site, and that M-1 would make an official statement should there be any change in Fedor's status.

"It's unfortunate that the site (LifeSports.ru) has shown little to no journalistic integrity," Kogan said in a statement made to BloodyElbow.com. "This is also not the first time their writers have fabricated a story to create attention. Quite simply, it should be ignored. Should there ever be a change in Fedor's status, rest assured that M-1 would provide an official position."

Link to Original Source Article

Penick's Analysis: Not that M-1 has been a bastion of transparency when it comes to Fedor Emelianenko, but I don't put much credence into the initial rumor. Emelianenko still has two more fights left on a deal he just signed, and has an option for one more after that should it be exercised. I don't think Zuffa's in any position to make a move like this with Fedor at this point in time. Of course, they could cut him if they have control over Strikeforce's moves, which they've claimed they would not be doing, but right now I'd still expect to see Fedor fight once more in 2011.