The negotiations are taking place and a Fedor Emelianenko vs. Josh Barnett are almost finalized according to a report posted on the official M-1 Global website. President of M-1 Global, Vadim Finkelchtein tell us that an agreement may be reached in as little as ten days.
Here’s the snip:
“Official word regarding a date and a venue are not yet available, but early-August is believed to being targeted for Affliction/M-1 III with the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif. anticipated as the venue for the event.
If signed, the Fedor vs. Barnett matchup will be the culmination of a bout between the two friends that has been anticipated during the PRIDE era in which the two fighters seemingly fought ever top heavyweight in the organization, except each other. Attempts by PRIDE officials to sign the matchup were thrwarted due to injuries sustained by Barnett.
Emelianenko, 30-1, is currently recognized as the undisputed WAMMA heavyweight champion of the world. He has not competed in an official bout since a first round knockout victory over former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski during Affliction and M-1’s “Day of Reckoning” event on January 24.
Barnett is currently ranked as the number one contender to Fedor’s undisputed heavyweight title, according to WAMMA. The 31-year old holds a lifetime record of 24-5 and has won his last four fights. His most recent victory took place at “Day of Reckoning” following a third round submission due to repeated punches against Gilbert Yvel.”
