Fedor Emelianenko (photo via AXS TV)

By FCF Staff

Although many veteran and hardcore fans continue to hold out hope for a Fedor Emelianenko comeback, the legendary heavyweight is clearly enjoying life outside the cage and ring.

The 38 year-old, Russian star will be part of Bellator’s “Fan Fest” this weekend in Connecticut, but Emelianenko is there to sign autographs, not fight. Recently “The Last Emperor’ spoke with MMA Fighting.com, and while discussing his current life, he relayed:

“I’m just enjoying the retirement,” said Emelianenko, who also works as an ambassador for MMA in Russia. “Even though I am retired, I still train and I still go to workout and train to not lose that stamina that I worked very hard to build. Nonetheless, I’m still in retirement. If I do decide to come back, I’ll do a big press conference and invite you.”

Emelianenko hasn’t fought now since 2012, when he KO’d Pedro Rizzo in what was his retirement fight. For years, there was widespread speculation as to whether the UFC and the former PRIDE champ could come to an agreement, but it never materialized. Even after Emelianenko retired, he was reportedly approached by the UFC about fighting Brock Lesnar.

“Fan Fest”is being held in Manchester, Connecticut on Thursday at a Dave & Busters, in advance of Bellator 134 on Friday night.