Fedor Emelianko has announced his retirement, officially stating that he wants to spend more time with his daughters. He is retiring on a win, a violent knockout of the faded Brazilian Pedro Rizzo. Fedor was never one of my favorite fighters, but I have always been in awe of him. His long reign showed that an under-sized chubby heavyweight could dominate the division. Roy “Fat Country” Nelson should take some encouragement from that.
On a side note, I feel that Pedro Rizzo should also retire. He’s been on the end of some bad knockouts, and I don’t want anymore to happen to him. He’s been around a long time, and I used to be a fan of his, because of his superb striking skills. He’s had some amazing wins, one over Josh Barnett and a classic match with Randy Couture.
MMA has changed so dramatically, since the loss of the PRIDE organization. I feel like an era is truly ending.
Hi Boxing Blogger, thanks for covering Fedor.
I’m a big fan of Emilianenko and I think he was the best MMA fighter ever also because as you mentioned, his smaller size and his “chubbyness” did not prevent him from dominating the MMA scene. He is also fearless and his attitude towards other fighter was very respectful.
Unfortunately there is a time when any of us becaomes too old and has to retire.
I am impressed with your blog.
Keep up the good work,
George
thanks, it’s always great to hear from a reader