The two men fought for the Japanese promotion, PRIDE, for years; and for one reason or another never met in combat until now.

According to Josh Gross over at SI.com, the fight is being discussed for this July and will headline Affliction's third event set to take place in Anaheim, CA at the Honda Center.

If the fight takes place as expected, Emelianenko (29-1), who has stated some reservations about facing Barnett due to their close friendship, will be defending his WAMMA championship belt for the second time. Emelianenko ran through Tim Sylvia last July at Affliction "Banned" to capture the title and defended it last month via first round KO against a very game Andrei Arlovski at Affliction "Day of Reckoning."

Barnett (24-5), was curiously placed number two on WAMMA's recent heavyweight poll, despite an an average showing against journeyman Gilbert Yvel. He leapfrogged UFC interim champion Frank Mir who looked fantastic in his last outing against MMA Legend Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. Barnett, nevertheless represents a very intriguing match up for Emelianenko who's legend continues to grow with each passing fight.