The prospect of two legendary mixed martial artists stepping into the boxing ring together has generated buzz among combat sports fans. However, one prominent promoter has made it clear he wants no part of the spectacle.
UFC CEO Dana White has firmly shut down any suggestion of his involvement in a potential boxing match between Fedor Emelianenko and Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic.
When questioned about the possibility at the UFC 321 post-fight press conference, White was unequivocal in his stance.
“Those are not the kind of boxing matches that I’m going to be doing,” the UFC CEO stated. “I’m sure there are plenty of people that would love to do that boxing match. I am not one of them.”
White’s dismissive response comes as Emelianenko recently revealed that a boxing rematch with Cro Cop came remarkably close to happening before collapsing at the eleventh hour.
According to the Russian heavyweight legend, both MMA stars had signed contracts for a bout scheduled to take place in Japan, two decades after their original MMA encounter.
“There was talk about our rematch and not long ago one organization contacted me to hold our match in Japan,” Emelianenko explained in a recent interview. “They wanted to hold our match now, 20 years later, according to boxing rules.”
The event appeared destined to materialize, with both veterans committed to the project. “It was as if everything was already going well and at the last moment it fell through. We signed the agreement,” Emelianenko revealed, noting that both athletes had already begun training camps in anticipation.
Despite the setback, the former PRIDE heavyweight champion remains open to future boxing opportunities. “God willing, it will happen. It’s difficult to organize, you understand. A suitable opponent is needed here,” he said.
Emelianenko has been dedicating considerable effort to his boxing skills, training with specialists at CSKA. The intense boxing-focused regimen has dramatically improved his conditioning, with the 47-year-old noting visible physical transformations from the demanding training sessions.
Currently weighing between 106-108 kilograms, Emelianenko has also been managing his recovery from shoulder surgery performed a year ago. The comprehensive three-part procedure addressed multiple issues including growths, arthrosis, and a torn labrum.
“Thank God, I had a wonderful doctor, yes, he did, well, my shoulder and thank God, now, yes, now I feel good,” he shared about his rehabilitation progress.
Regarding his potential opponent, Emelianenko expressed admiration for Cro Cop’s current condition. “Mirko is in great shape,” he acknowledged, suggesting that both veterans could still deliver an entertaining performance.
While White has made his position abundantly clear, the UFC boss acknowledged that other promoters may see value in organizing such an event. He wants to focus on different types of boxing matchups rather than legacy bouts between retired MMA stars.
