Fedor Emelianenko

By FCF Staff

It looks as though Fedor Emelianenko will not face Tsuyoshi Kosaka for a second time at Rizin Fighting Federation’s December 31st card as reported.

Emelianenko and Kosaka battled back in 2000, and the latter won the bout via doctor stoppage (due to a cut). According to a follow up report from Bloody Elbow, however, Rizin FF announced this week that Kosaka will fight at the NYE card, but he’ll take on James Thompson. The latter was stopped by Bobby Lashley earlier this month at Bellator 145.

The 45 year-old Kosaka hasn’t fought since 2006, when he was stopped by Mark Hunt, while fighting for PRIDE.  Emelianenko’s opponent, meanwhile, has yet to be announced.

Rizin FF will hold shows on December 29th and 31st in Saitama, Japan.