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Tuesday, Jun 21, 2016

Dana White Praises Toughness of Fedor Emelianenko, Reports Fight Pass Featuring Russian Star “Did Very Well”

Fedor Emelianenko

By FCF Staff

Following Fedor Emelianenko’s controversial, decision win over Fabio Maldonado, many have questioned whether the UFC will still look to sign the Russian star. Well, based off recent comments Dana White made about Emelianenko, it sounds like the promotion is still interested in the former PRIDE champ.

Emelianenko was dropped by Maldonado in the opening round of the EFN 50 bout, and the latter proceeded to batter the heavyweight with punches from above. Many refs would have stopped the fight, but Emelianenko eventually got to his feet and managed to survive the round. Fedor went on to outstrike Maldonado for much of the last two rounds, but because the opening round was a clear 10-8, the consensus is the fight should have been a draw, at minimum. Emelianenko was awarded the majority decision win.

In the first episode of the UFC’s new “Unfiltered”podcast, White was asked to weigh-in on Fedor’s performance. The UFC President praised Emelianenko for his toughness and chin, and added that the refs were “willing to let him die” in the bout.

While discussing whether Fedor could sign with the UFC, White noted that the company has been trying to sign the heavyweight for years. White also reported that the Fight Pass broadcast of EFN 50 “did very well” and that “people still want to watch” Emelianenko.

The victory was Emelianenko’s second since he ended his retirement last year. Maldonado, meanwhile, has lost three in a row.

posted by FCF Staff @ 11:44 am
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