In the short-term, M-1 Global pushed back its U.S. debut from February to April. The promotion had the chance to book the United Center in Chicago for Feb. 16 but opted against it as fighter negotiations had not progressed accordingly. April 11 now appears to be the targeted date for either the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Ill., or the Izod Center in East Rutherford, N.J.
Regardless of venue and date, Emelianenko is headlining the event. As for his opponent, Dutchman Semmy Schilt seems to have overtaken Pedro Rizzo and Jeff Monson in favor with Finkelstein and company. The three-time K-1 World Grand Prix champion made a successful comeback to MMA on Jan. 12 and will be in Moscow the second weekend in February to negotiate the details.
