Planet Tatami: Are there any fighters at Red Devil that you think are prepared to follow your footsteps into MMA? Does Kiril Sidelnikov continue to train with you?

Fedor: There are enough skilled, talented up-and-coming fighters but
they lack experience in performing on a major scene.

Planet Tatami: Do you know when your brother Aleksander will fight
again? Has he been training with you lately?

Fedor: Well, I don't know, these question will better be answered by
our manager Vadim Finkelstein. We haven't trained together recently. I
train in Stary Oskol while he prepares for his fights in Saint Petersburg.

Planet Tatami: Russia is the home of the legendary Aleksander Karelin and other great wrestlers. Why do you think that the best russian fighters in MMA come from Sambo and not from Wrestling? Are you a fan of Karelin?

Fedor: People come in MMA from diverse styles. The transition itself
is not organized in Russia. MMA is not that popluar here compared with
Brazil, USA or Japan. Russian fighters' mentality is not the right one,
not a fighter's mentality. Sambo is close to MMA, closer than greco-roman or free-style wrestling. I highly respect Karelin, he's a good fighter. But I don't make an idol of anyone.

Planet Tatami: What is the importance of Sambo in your life?

Fedor: Sambo is my sport and I proudly represent it abroad. Sambo is exciting and dynamic style. I still intend to represent Russia in this sport.

Planet Tatami: Fedor, most of the martial arts fans here in Brazil
and all over the world have you as an idol and support you in your
fights. It happens not only due to your great fight skills and
versatility but also due to your humility and character. Feel free to
send your message to all your fans.

Fedor: Thank you very much for your kind words. I'm very pleased I
got fans in Brazil who like my fights and technique. I've always dreamt of visiting Brazil one day, but it's been a dream which hasn't come true today. I hope to see you there soon.

To read part 1 of this interview, click here.

For more information on Fedor Emelianenko please visit the M-1 website: M-1 Mixfight.