M-1 Global say Fedor’s contract is with Showtime not Strikeforce, Zuffa buyout has no effect on them

M-1 Global executive, Evangi Kogan has tonight moved to dismiss any possible suggestion that Zuffa LLC. has any hold over Fedor Emelianenko after snapping up California based promotion, Strikeforce earlier today, explaining their contract is with Showtime and therefore has no bearing on them.
Speaking via MMAWeekly.com, Kogan said:

“Fedor’s contract is with Showtime Networks Inc and we’re excited to be working with such a premium North American outlet. The purchase of Strikeforce doesn’t affect M-1 at all. Our TV deal is with Showtime and we’re happy. It’s business as usual for M-1 Global as we close into our March 25th event.”

Fans had been speculating whether or not we’d finally see Fedor competing inside the UFC’s octagon with this buyout, although this latest statement seems to have quickly slammed the door on that idea. Stay tuned to MMABay for more reaction to this monster story as we get it.