Fedor Emelianenko Considering Senate RunThe world’s top-ranked heavyweight is reportedly considering a run for the senate in his native Russia. Fedor Emelianenko, widely regarded as one of the best mixed martial artists in the sport’s history, may run for the United Russia party. Middle Easy was first to break the story.

While initial reports also suggested that Emelianenko may retire from MMA once his current contract with Strikeforce is up, M-1 Global Director of Operations Evgeni Kogan has stated that that is not true. Emelianenko may run for senate, but Kogan maintains that talk of retirement is premature.

Emelianenko (31-1-0, 1 NC) remains one of the most polarising and talked-about fighters in the sport. Some feel that he is a living legend and worthy of the distinction of greatest of all time. Others point to sporadic and, at times, questionable competition in recent years and feel that Emelianenko will never truly prove himself unless he signs with the UFC. Regardless, Emelianenko remains at the forefront of discussions involving MMA, but the stoic Russian rarely speaks out on his own behalf and prefers to do his talking inside the ring or cage.

The 33-year-old Emelianenko was among a list of 58 candidates approved for the party’s internal primary elections. He is one of 24 who have never participated in legislative elections before, but is already respected and revered in his home country. Kogan states that Emelianenko does not intend to retire from MMA, but did confirm that the final PRIDE Heavyweight Champion may indeed pursue a run for the senate. Should he be successful, it remains to be seen how or if it would affect his MMA career.

 

 

(Photo Credit: Sherdog.com)