Fedor Emelianenko’s legacy as one of the greatest fighters in the history of MMA is cemented. He may well be the last fighter who was able to establish his greatness without ever setting foot in the UFC.

But his conservative take on women’s MMA could have an impact on the way Emelianenko (34-4) is thought of by a new generation of fans who didn’t see him dominate the heavyweight division during his days in PRIDE. Emelianenko ran roughshod on the heavyweight division from 2001-2009 with a 28-fight unbeaten streak.

During a lengthy interview with WHOATV, the MMA legend was asked about UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey. He explained through an interpreter that he doesn’t support women competing in the sport that made him a star.

“He saw her fight,” Fedor’s interpreter said. “She has really interesting fights. Maybe a little bit of improvement to striking, but he doesn’t support women’s MMA.”

Rousey has become one of the biggest stars in the sport while dominating challengers in the UFC, a promotion which company president Dana White once famously said would never play host to women athletes.

Emelianenko offered up a cringeworthy explanation of his objection to women’s MMA while bringing a physical aspect to his criticism.

“Women shouldn’t compete in UFC/MMA because this sport is for men,” Emelianenko said through his interpreter. “There are a lot of sports where women look like women – like gymnastics, water sports, maybe some athletics.

“He’s telling that women shouldn’t fight. MMA is for men. It’s a man sport.”

Check out the full interview above.