If he looks good against Maldonado why shouldn't it happen.
Fedor vs roy nelson would be a good tune up fight and after that he could rematch werdum or fight a top 10 opponent
He is a smart business man though. Let the UFC make an offer first, then let Rizin or whatever organisation pay so much more.. I wish he actually signed though!
Yes, but why is he teasing with the 'big chance I'll sign with the UFC'. That's just a strategy to make more money elsewhere. He can fight wherever he likes, but I won't believe his statements about fighting in the UFC until he signs the contract. I do consider him by far the greatest heavyweight MMA fighter of all time though.The difference I'd say is that he's more established in Japan and didn't lose there so he was worth more to Rizin in his initial comeback, The UFC tend to be more risk adverse and looking good in 1-2 comeback fights probably helps your position with them.
Honestly though his legacy is already there, if he wants to come back and take a few lower level fights before finally retiring again then I think he's perfectly entitled to without damaging it.
Yes, but why is he teasing with the 'big chance I'll sign with the UFC'. That's just a strategy to make more money elsewhere. He can fight wherever he likes, but I won't believe his statements about fighting in the UFC until he signs the contract. I do consider him by far the greatest heavyweight MMA fighter of all time though.