Conor McGregor hinted at a potential BKFC signing of MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko, despite the latter’s retirement, while expressing enthusiasm for expanding BKFC globally, including a planned event in Ireland by 2026.
Conor McGregor is dropping hints about what might be the biggest BKFC signing ever. During a press conference in Italy, promoting BKFC’s April 26 event in Florence, he teased a potential signing of MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko.
McGregor’s ears perked up when a reporter compared him to Emelianenko and Royce Gracie, suggesting that Emelianenko’s arrival at BKFC is just around the corner. “Fedor Emelianenko?” McGregor mused. “Stay tuned, we might have some announcement with Fedor Emelianenko.”
He continued, “Hey Fedor, we’re waiting. Some news might be coming with Fedor Emelianenko.” BKFC is on a mission to sign the best fighters across eras, and everyone seems eager to join this growing roster.
BKFC has already attracted notable MMA names like former UFC champ Eddie Alvarez and standouts Mike Perry, Jeremy Stephens, Ben Rothwell, Paige VanZant, Bec Rawlings, and Thiago Alves. Adding Emelianenko would be a massive win for them.
Emelianenko, now 48, retired in 2023 after losing to Ryan Bader at Bellator 290. His legendary run from 2001-2009 saw him undefeated in 28 fights against top-tier opponents like Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Mirko Cro Cop.
Since hanging up his gloves, “The Last Emperor” hasn’t shown much interest in returning to competition. Even if Emelianenko stays retired, McGregor’s enthusiasm for BKFC hasn’t waned one bit.
McGregor remains determined to expand BKFC globally, with plans for an event in Ireland by 2026. “We’ve got Dubai, we’ve got Australia,” he said. “A real globe-trotting plan here for 2025.”
BKFC Italy will take place at Palazzo Wanny in Florence on April 26. The main event features cruiserweight champion Chris Camozzi against Lorenzo Hunt in a rematch of their September 2023 title fight. Should be a cracker!