Several weeks ago, the UFC released Wanderlei Silva from his contract with the promotion after he publicly retracted his previous statements about fixed fights in the UFC.

Now free to pursue other opportunities outside of North America, many assumed that Silva would be destined to join upstart Japanese promotion Rizin Fighting Federation. That appears to be the case, as Rizin CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara revealed that he would begin negotiations with Wanderlei later this month.

"This month, I will visit the United States, where I will meet with Wanderlei," Sakakibara told Tass.ru. "This is a fighter, which is not only interesting to Rizin, but for fans of combat sports in general. And our job is to answer the wishes of our viewers."

Sakakibara added that the promotion will aim to set up a potential clash between Fedor Emelianenko and Wanderlei Silva if they sense that it is a fight that fans are interested in.

"If we talk about the fight between Fedor and Wanderlei Silva, there is such a possibility. If the number of those wishing to see the fight between Fedor and Wanderlei Silva will be really great, we will make efforts to ensure that the fight takes place."