In a conference call with media members today, both Fedor Emelianenko and Brett Rogers were on hand to discuss their upcoming fight this Saturday, November 7th.
In typical Fedor fashion, the Russian heavyweight offered only minimal insight into his thoughts on his fight with Rogers.
“I cannot tell you exactly how the fight will go,” Fedor stated. “Everything depends on what my opponent offers me…I’ve been fighting for quite a long time and sometimes if I don’t know something I’m able to feel it out by intuition. I do know one of Brett’s advantages is his strong knockout punch.”
Emelianenko, considered by many the top pound-for-pound fighter in the world, will have another opportunity to cement his legacy when he faces the undefeated Rogers.
At 10-0, “The Grim” knows this fight is the biggest in his career, but feels his striking will give him an edge.
“He’s not going to be able to handle me standing up,” stated Rogers. “I’m not fresh to the game. I’ve been studying this game for six years. I’m coming in as the bigger, stronger guy and I’m definitely not trying to let him control the fight.”
Rogers emerged as a top heavyweight after his TKO of Andrei Arlovski in 22 seconds this past June. That victory, and subsequent matchup with Fedor, have enabled the Chicago-native the ability to train full-time.
“Everything changed dramatically after that fight. I was getting all kinds of offers from movies to TV shows and now I’m getting top sponsors,” Rogers said.
Strikeforce’s “Fedor vs. Rogers” event will be broadcast this Saturday live on the CBS network and takes place at the Sears Centre Arena in Chicago. According to Strikeforce president Scott Coker, 85 percent of tickets are already sold and he expects a full sellout by Saturday.
The event is being co-promoted with M-1 Global, the organization owned by Fedor’s manager Vadim Finkelchtein. Despite splitting promotional duties, Coker believes bringing Fedor to national TV will take Strikeforce to new heights.
“When you have the opportunity to sign the number one heavyweight in the world I think it works for everybody,” Coker stated. “We’ve been doing this for over two decades and we’re very proud and happy to have Fedor.”
For the complete lineup of fights scheduled, please click here.
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