Save for a few quick sound bytes, we really haven't heard much from the former PRIDE Heavyweight Champion following his technical knockout loss to Dan Henderson under the Strikeforce banner back on July 30 in Hoffman Estates, Illinois.
Until now.
After amassing one of the most impressive career resumes in the history of organized fighting, Emelianenko suffered a three-fight losing streak by tapping to Fabricio Werdum, having the doctor save him from Antonio Silva and then going limp at the hands of Dan Henderson.
"The Last Emperor" was no longer welcome in the Strikeforce promotion following his most recent defeat and despite his existing contract with the Showtime network, will likely compete in his native Russia later this year.
So what are his thoughts on losing to Hendo? And the criticisms received by UFC President Dana White, among others?
Emelianenko weighs in (via Low Kick) after the jump.
"I think the (Henderson) fight was stopped early. But that's my opinion. We all know that the referees are trying to protect fighters from serious injuries. I don't want to judge anyone. The refereeing was fair, and if there was some sort of mistake, I don't think it was intentional ... There's a lot of unnecessary talk about my training partners. I don't want to blame anyone for my streak of defeats. Everyone trained hard so I could achieve positive results ... Dana White's style [is] to make comments. I didn't have a contract with Strikeforce. My current contract is with Showtime. So I think people shouldn't pay attention to these 'loud' comments. I don't have any obligations for UFC or Strikeforce. Our new contract ensures we don't have to work directly with these organizations. We have already experienced certain difficulties while working with PRIDE and Affliction. We are trying to avoid any unpleasant consequences."
M-1 Global recently unveiled a productive fight schedule for the former WAMMA Champion, who aside from competing in Russia, will try to get himself booked for Japan's year-end Dynamite!! show on New Year's Eve.
But can Emelianenko afford another loss? And is he still being stubborn about his training methods?
Opinions, please.
Get the latest gear
