Randy Couture explains decision to turn down Emelianenko fight

Heading into Fedor Emelianenko’s MMA return on New Year’s Eve at Rizin FF there was much speculation as to who Fedor Emelianenko’s opponent would be.. Ultimately, Emelianenko fought and defeated Jaideep Singh, in the very first round of their main event scrap.

Following the bout it was revealed that WSOF President and kickboxing legend Ray Sefo was offered the fight, as well as former UFC champion Randy Couture.

Couture spoke to MMAJunkie Radio to discuss why he turned down the fight.

“It’s not a huge money issue. The kind of money they’re talking about is significant. But it’s more about doing the sport justice and doing myself justice.”

“At 52 years old, to put my body back through all that and do the things I know I need to do to do it right is a lot to ask. I’m more worried about sustaining an injury that’s going to affect the rest of my life.”