Fedor Emelianenko shocked the mixed martial arts world when he announced his return to the sport earlier this year. The possibility of diehard fans finally getting the chance to see “The Last Emperor” in the world-famous octagon was exciting, but their hopes were crushed when he announced his signing with a new Japanese based promotion, Rizen Fighting Federation.

Weeks after the announcement was made, Dave Meltzer reported that Fedor Emelianenko would be making $2,500,000 for his fight in Japan which will take place on New Year’s Eve in Japan.

Parties close to Fedor Emelianenko have neither confirmed nor denied the report, but the man himself is now dodging the question. “I’m not going to comment on the various rumors from the press, “Emelianenko informed Championat. “Information on the fees for my own fight is something that only two people know – that’s Mr. Sakakibara and me. For more information on this and other questions, I’ll answer the official press conference.”

Do you think $2.5 million is a bit too high of a price for Fedor’s return fight? Should Dana White have paid that price? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

Translated by Karim Zidan of Bloody Elbow