Russian heavyweight icon Fedor Emelianenko faces the prospect of completing his MMA journey without the company of the man who guided him through his career.
Emelianenko (39-6 MMA, 3-2 BMMA) revealed via social media that his longtime coach Vladimir Voronov has passed away aged 55.
With Voronov by his side, “The Last Emperor” developed into the most feared heavyweight in MMA as Emelianenko embarked on a near-decade-long undefeated run that ran from December 2000 to June 2010 and spanned his remarkable tenure with Japanese promotion PRIDE FC.
Posting to Instagram, Emelianenko said (via translation), “My coach Vladimir Mikhailovich Voronov has died. From childhood, Vladimir Mikhailovich was part of the family, a demanding mentor. He was always there in difficult and happy moments of my life.
“Vladimir Mikhailovich was not only a coach, but also a father to many athletes. He raised champions, strong in spirit, believed in young guys and helped them find their way in life. I ask for your prayers for the newly departed Vladimir. My most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Vladimir Mikhailovich.”
Emelianenko recently held talks with Bellator president Scott Coker about the final fights of his career, but now it remains to be seen whether the loss of his coach will motivate him to continue in Voronov’s honor, or bring the curtain down on his career earlier than anticipated.
