Fedor Emelianenko Eyes Boxing Match with Mike Tyson

Retired MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko expresses his desire to step into the boxing ring for a match against Mike Tyson. Read more about his boxing aspirations and the potential matchup.

Fedor Emelianenko Sets Sights on Boxing Match with Mike Tyson

Retired mixed martial arts legend Fedor Emelianenko is looking to step into the boxing ring for a match against fellow fighting icon, Mike Tyson. Emelianenko, also known as "The Last Emperor," recently spoke with Ariel Helwani on MMA Fighting’s "The MMA Hour" and expressed his desire to try his hand at the sweet science.

Emelianenko, who competed in his last MMA fight in February, confirmed that he has no intention of returning to the world of mixed martial arts. Instead, he wants to test himself in the realm of boxing. The 46-year-old Russian stated, "MMA is done, 100 percent. I’m not going back to MMA. I want to try myself in boxing. I think that’s going to be interesting."

Although Emelianenko has never fought in a boxing match before, he believes that a bout against Mike Tyson would be a thrilling challenge. Tyson, who came out of a 15-year retirement in 2020, faced off against former boxing world champion Roy Jones Jr. in an exhibition match. Emelianenko watched the fight and was inspired by Tyson’s performance, stating, "Mike Tyson would be an interesting fight. He has a big name, he’s a legend. … It would be interesting because you can see a lot of his videos on YouTube and all over the place, he’s still in good shape. He still works pads, he still has that same power."

Currently, Tyson is assisting former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in his preparations for a match against WBC heavyweight king Tyson Fury. Emelianenko expressed his willingness to fight Tyson on the undercard of that event, saying, "That would be awesome. If it would be possible, I definitely would do it. I will be ready." Emelianenko emphasized that he is always training and ready for any opportunity that comes his way.

While boxing matches between boxers and mixed martial artists have become increasingly popular in recent years, with notable examples including Jake Paul’s victory over Nate Diaz and Anthony Pettis’ win against Jones Jr., a contest between Emelianenko and Tyson would undoubtedly capture the attention of fight fans. Despite Tyson’s experience and technical advantage, Emelianenko believes that his training in boxing would make the potential matchup between two legends "interesting."

Stay tuned for updates on the possibility of a boxing match between Fedor Emelianenko and Mike Tyson.