After all the talk about what it would cost to sign Fedor Emelianenko - who may or may not defect from M-1 Global (depending on who you believe), it would be ironic that a rumored deal with ProElite would potentially put him on network television for free.
Yet that's exactly what's being reported over at NOKAUT.com.
Here's a snip:
A reliable source has confirmed ProElite, Inc. has offered Russian heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko (27-1) a four-fight, 18-month contract. The contract calls for Emelianenko's first two fights in the promotion to broadcast on American television network CBS as a part of the recently inked deal between ProElite and the TV giant. The final two fights would air on pay-per-view and share proceeds with Emelianenko. There's no indication whether or not Emelianenko will accept ProElite's offer...A request for confirmation or comment from Jeremy Lappen, ProElite Head of Fight Operations, has been ignored.
ProElite — the parent company of EliteXC — recently announced a multi-year deal with CBS to broadcast four LIVE two-hour EliteXC events annually on Saturday nights. Former streetfighter and breakout star Kimbo Slice will headline the debut show titled "Saturday Night Fights" on May 31.
A move to secure Emelianenko -- who is admittedly sour on the UFC after their previous negotiations -- comes at a perfect time and could turn a landmark deal with network television into a potential blockbuster.
Though it's still just a rumor at this stage, it's definitely an idea with merit.
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