Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship’s European expansion continues to gain momentum, with Florence’s historic Palazzo di Parte Guelfa providing a striking backdrop for their latest conquest. In a masterful blend of classic grandeur and modern combat sports, the promotion’s Italian debut drew unprecedented attention as Conor McGregor commanded the dais at the press conference.

The scene was almost theatrical: Renaissance architecture framing the brash Irishman as he helped unveil BKFC’s April 26 fight card, building on the promotion’s successful Spanish venture in Marbella last year. At the heart of the announcement stands a grudge rematch, as Chris Camozzi puts his cruiserweight title on the line against Lorenzo Hunt, in what promises to be a blood-soaked affair fitting of the gladiatorial spirit that once permeated these very streets.

In a bold announcement, the Irishman confirmed his intent to compete in BKFC, declaring, “Conor McGregor will fight in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, mark my words. I’d like a world title in this company. I would wish to be the Bare Knuckle World Champion.” But Conor McGregor wasn’t done. He sent shockwaves through the MMA community by hinting at the potential return of a true legend—Fedor Emelianenko.

In a statement shared by MMA Junkie on Instagram, the former double champ teased, “Stay tuned, we might have an announcement with Fedor Emelianenko. Hey Fedor, We’re waiting…Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship is signing and acquiring the best fighters of all time.”

Could ‘The Last Emperor’ be making a comeback? The Russian heavyweight icon last stepped into the cage in 2023, suffering a knockout loss to Ryan Bader in what was believed to be his retirement fight in Bellator. Since then, there had been no indication of him returning to competition—until now. However, the idea of the 48-year-old stepping into the brutal world of bare-knuckle boxing has raised eyebrows among MMA fans.

Many view it as a dangerous move, with some even calling it “suicide” given the physical toll BKFC fights demand. As speculation runs wild, let’s take a look at how fans are reacting to the possibility of the PRIDE FC legend making his return to combat sports under the BKFC banner.

MMA Fans slam “Washed-Up” Conor McGregor for signing retired Fedor Emelianenko

Fedor Emelianenko, once the scourge of the heavyweight division, stands at 6 feet tall and weighs 237 lbs. He dominated the fight world, first rising to prominence in the PRIDE FC in Japan. A master of both MMA and Sambo, the Russian was a four-time Combat Sambo champion. In addition, he honed his judo skills to perfection. This blend of techniques solidified his legacy as one of the most dominant fighters in the sport, earning him titles in various organizations like Strikeforce, M-1 Global, and RIZIN.

After a brief retirement, Emelianenko made a return to Bellator but is now living a peaceful life—something many fans wish for him to continue. On MMA Junkie’s page, a fan shut down Conor McGregor’s demands by writing, “There is a time when this would basically be signing Fedor up to kill a dude, but he’s 20 years past his best now.” Another fan echoed this sentiment, commenting, “Sure, let’s see 52-year-old CTE-riddled Fedor fight bare-knuckle.”

Although ‘The Last Emperor’ competed in top organizations like Strikeforce, Affliction, and PRIDE, a UFC deal never materialized. Failed negotiations left a bitter taste, with Dana White labeling Emelianenko an “overrated” fighter. Emelianenko fired back, calling the UFC and White “slavery-minded” for restricting fighters’ “freedom.”

In the comments, MMA fans were quick to criticize McGregor for using Fedor Emelianenko’s name for financial gain. One fan accused the Irishman of desperation, writing, “Starving for money huh… Fedor is waaay past his prime… c’mon, let him rest.” Another fan shared their desire to see ‘The Last Emperor’ enjoy his retirement, stating, “He is almost 50. I don’t want to see that. I’ve watched Fedor enough! He is a legend—let him enjoy retirement.“

Interestingly, despite White’s past criticism, the UFC once sought to arrange a “dream fight” between Emelianenko and Brock Lesnar. Reports suggest that Fedor Emelianenko was offered a lucrative $2 million per fight deal. However, the negotiations fell apart because the Russian juggernaut wanted the UFC to co-promote M-1 Global. This was a Russian MMA promotion in which he held equity. The deal never came to fruition.

With Emelianenko now approaching 50, fans have voiced their concerns about a return. One fan simply stated, “Fedor is 50.” Another asked, “Idk, isn’t Fedor 50?.” Some fans also took jabs at McGregor, who has been out of the Octagon for years. One fan mocked, writing, “Bro is signing every washed-up fighter except for himself.”

As Conor McGregor announces his own return, his remarks about ‘The Last Emperor’ have drawn massive backlash. Neither Fedor nor his team have confirmed anything regarding a possible BKFC debut. And that too at the age of 48! However, should any official updates come through, we will keep you informed. Stay tuned!