Strikeforce: What Fedor Emelianenko's Return Really Means

Although there’s been an abundance of talk that Strikeforce’s second CBS show could mark the promotion’s last on network television, Fedor Emelianenko’s return could spark enough interest for “the eye” to request a third prime-time broadcast.

For hardcore MMA fans, “Strikeforce: Nashville ” is solid enough to stand on its own without Fedor, however with the UFC potentially counter-programming the April 17th event, casual MMA fans could skip Strikeforce’s promotion altogether (Thank God for DVR’s).

Now that Fedor is officially back in the mix , Strikeforce retains access to the best fighter in the world and knows the UFC can’t get their hands anywhere near him.

The Russian’s debut in November, “Strikeforce: Fedor vs. Rogers ,” was a great success as it garnered four million viewers.

If given a third CBS show, it would be hard to believe Strikeforce wouldn’t showcase MMA’s baddest heavyweight this time around as it would maximize exposure for not only him, but the San Jose, Calif. based promotion as well.

In addition, the prime-time advertising dollars will certainly help pay some of Emelianenko’s hefty salary.

Then again, there’s also the possibility of Fedor headlining Strikeforce’s first ever pay-per-view show, which company CEO Scott Coker said could take place later this summer.

Either way, Fedor is by far Strikeforce’s biggest meal ticket and the key to their longevity, regardless of what Coker & Co. keep trying to preach.

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