Fedor Emelianenko, the renowned Russian mixed martial arts fighter, spoke in a recent interview with Sports Express about his current fighting weight. He shared that he weighs 110 kilograms today, reflecting a steady climb from his earlier, leaner days. Throughout his career, Emelianenko has seen his weight rise progressively. He noted that his first significant body weight after basic training stood around 78 kilograms, and after military service he returned weighing 93 kilograms. In his early combat days, he fought at weights near 95 kilograms in judo and around 100 kilograms in sambo. Over time, his fighting weight crept upward, and today it sits at 110 kilograms. He adds a lighthearted note about his family, quoting that his wife and his mother have weighed in on this evolution as well.
On February 5, 2023, Emelianenko faced American fighter Ryan Bader in Bellator 290. The match ended in the first round with the referee stopping the contest in the third minute, marking a decision that led the veteran to announce his retirement from professional competition. The bout capped a storied career that spanned multiple promotions and showcased Emelianenko as one of the sport’s most recognizable figures.
Earlier in January 2019, the two veterans met inside the eight-sided cage again, with Bader securing a victory in just 35 seconds. Over the course of his MMA journey, Emelianenko compiled 48 fights, delivering 40 wins and sustaining seven defeats. This record reflects a long and influential tenure in the sport, filled with memorable battles and a lasting impact on how heavyweight competition is evaluated and remembered.
There have been rumors and discussions about Olympic participation or restrictions involving combat sports athletes in recent years. In this context, there were reports suggesting that the International Olympic Committee had prohibited a boxing legend from taking part in the 2024 Olympic Games. While such statements circulate in media and fan discourse, they remain part of broader conversations about eligibility and sport governance as events approach. Emelianenko’s career, however, remains defined by his achievements inside the MMA arena and his enduring influence on fans around the world, including audiences in Canada and the United States.