Could BKFC soon sign, arguably, the greatest MMA fighter of all time? Conor McGregor suggested on Sunday some news about a deal could be imminent.
The UFC gets understandable credit for building the mixed martial arts industry and taking it to levels of popularity that no one expected 30 years ago. However, the Las Vegas-based company is no longer unique in achieving such a feat in combat sports.
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Over the last six years, BKFC has taken the dead sport of bare-knuckle boxing and not only brought it back to relevancy but has made it cool. The last year has seen a lot of growth for the promotion as they have started to spread the brand abroad and fill up larger arenas. A major reason for the company’s growing spotlight is the addition of UFC legend Conor McGregor as a minority owner.
He is one of the greatest self-promoters in fight sports history and has brought that skill to BKFC. Taking part in major press conferences and making bold statements. Well, this weekend the “Notorious” one suggested none other than Fedor Emelianenko could be the next MMA legend to join the promotion.
- Fedor Emelianenko record: 40-7 (11 knockouts, 17 submissions)
Is Fedor Emelianenko joining Conor McGregor in BKFC soon?
“Stay tuned. We might have an announcement with Fedor Emelianenko,” McGregor said at the BKFC Italy press conference when asked about the Russian fighting icon. “Hey Feeeddooooorrrr. We’re waiting. Some new might be coming with Fedor Emelianenko. Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship is signing and acquiring the best fighters of all time. Past, present, and future. And everyone wants to be a part of this.”
To some long-time MMA fans, the former Pride FC heavyweight king is the greatest MMA fighter of all time. He had a dominant reign when the Japanese-based company was at a peak period. However, he is 48 and has not fought in two years.
If BKFC intends to promote an event soon in Russia having him on the card would certainly bring a huge amount of attention to the event. However, he is over 10 years removed from his prime and is not a man who can compete with current BKFC heavyweight king Ben Rothwell. It will be interesting see how they use him if he is indeed signed.
