Strikeforce Video: Watch Antonio Silva's Stunning TKO Over Fedor Emelianenko

For a long time, Fedor Emelianenko was considered unstoppable. Even after a loss to Fabricio Werdum last June, he seemed to be this monster that would make his presence known in the Mixed Martial Arts world.

So much for that.

In the quarterfinals of the Heavyweight Grand Prix Tournament, Antonio Silva made himself known to the world. He never let up against Fedor, even after struggling in the first round, and the match was called in the second round due to a doctor's stoppage. Silva had gotten on top of his opponent and nearly made his eye swell shut.

If there is one thing that was exposed in this match, it's that once Fedor is on the ground, fighters can have a field day with him. Werdum and Silva both did that and won their matches quite easily.

Why was it so easy to defeat this Russian mystery? It is absolutely possible that at 34, Fedor is nearing the end of his career. His MMA record goes back to 2000, and after a 31-1 record, he has lost his last two matches quite decisively.

Could retirement be on the horizon? After all, his reputation is beginning to take a hit, with people saying his record was not due to his dominance, but how his agents handled him.

Being considered by many to be the best fighter in the world is nothing to be ashamed of though, and those fans will continue to support him whether he decides to retire or not.

Fedor proved one thing in this match. He is a part of the old guard, a guard that will find it very difficult to keep up with the rising stars. The young guns know how to get out of a mount and how to fight back in those situations.

Fedor Emelianenko could not, and it's too late for him to undergo a stylistic overhaul to his game.

As for Silva, he could very well face Werdum in the semifinals, and the two MMA fighters who defeated the Russian great will face off to see who is truly superior.

For those who love Fedor, and even those who don't, enjoy watching him while you can. I don't see him returning to the dominance he once held, and he will likely be done in the ring soon.