MMA Legend Fedor Emelianenko Ends Career Russian mixed martial arts star Fedor Emelianenko, regarded by many as one of the best fighters of all time, has announced his retirement from the sport after a career spanning more than two decades. In his retirement bout on Saturday, the 46-year-old faced off against another legend, Ryan Bader of the US, for the Bellator heavyweight championship belt, but lost by technical knockout. The referee stopped the fight in Inglewood, California in the first round after Bader, who is seven years younger, grounded Emelianenko and delivered a series of punches to his opponent. The American became the first athlete to defeat Fedor twice, following a previous victory back in 2019. In his post-fight interview, the usually modest Emelianenko apologized to the fans that he couldn’t win but expressed gratitude for their support. “I quit. Thanks to everyone,” he said before taking off his gloves and putting them on the canvas. Subscribe to RT