Barnett is cleared to compete again. Photo: Disclosure / Strikeforce
The announcement of the return of heavyweight (up to 120,2kg.) Fedor Emelianenko to MMA has already caught the attention of fighters like junior gypsy e Fabricio Werdum, but now another former champion is interested in facing him. In an interview with the North American website ‘MMA fighting’, Josh Barnett stated that he even called Bellator president, Scott Coker, looking for a confrontation against the Russian in his home country.
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“It took me a matter of seconds to let Scott know (that I wanted this fight). As for Fedor returning to action, if he feels he should return, I revere him for that. I know it's difficult for people on the outside looking at a fighter coming back even after so many fights. They think we are talking about a declining career. The point is that careers in the physical part are short, but in my opinion, as long as you have the will, it's ok. When the door is closed, it is closed forever. So don’t leave anything on the table,” Barnett said.
Despite not acting since 2016, the veteran reveals that he wouldn't mind fighting in Russia against Fedor. Furthermore, he shows affection to his possible rival and says that he would be happy even if he were not chosen to face him.
“Time will tell if that is the case or not, but I am available. The idea of fighting in Russia seems fantastic to me. I don’t mind fighting in another country and being seen as a ‘visitor’. I think he deserves all of this and more. Even if I didn't get a fight, it would be ok with me. He deserves this opportunity”, added the American.
This wouldn't be the first time Josh Barnett and Fedor Emelianenko would be marked. In August 2009, they were due to face each other at Affliction 3, but the American failed a pre-fight drug test.
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