Fedor Considering Retirement, Says Overeem Is Avoiding Him

With one fight remaining on his Strikeforce contract, Fedor Emelianenko is in the hunt for a top level opponent to face in that bout. A rematch with Fabricio Werdum is one that has been put out there but with Werdum injured it likely wouldn’t happen until next year and while a bout with Alistair Overeem has also been fired around Emelianenko feels Overeem is reluctant to step in the cage with him:

“Right now, Strikeforce are struggling to find me a serious opponent. Alistair Overeem keeps finding all sorts of excuses not to fight me. The remaining stars have lost in their recent fights, so the promotion has no desire to put them up against me. And Fabricio Werdum is still recovering from his surgery. In addition, I have only one fight remaining with Strikeforce.

My next fight will be last on the Strikeforce contract. I’m yet to decide whether I’m going to continue my fighting career after this contract expires. Also, my candidacy nominated for the Post of Deputy in Belgorod Regional Duma, and if I’m elected, I think, will defend the interests of the people and try to do my best efforts for the development of sport. But again, I think it’s too early to talk about it. I have to finalize the contract and prepare for my last bout.”