In the Cage – 8.8.11

Each day, The MMA Corner will provide a recap of event announcements, fight matchups, and injuries/cancellations from throughout the world of MMA.

Light heavyweight Matt Hamill has decided to step away from the Octagon.  The former Ultimate Fighter competitor dropped back-to-back fights to Quinton “Rampage” Jackson at UFC 130 and most recently Alexander Gustafsson at UFC 133.

“The Hammer” expressed his sadness at the decision, but acknowledged that he lacked the hunger and desire to continue fighting.  He will continue to coach at Mohawk Valley MMA, but will not compete again.

He thanked the UFC, his trainers, his family and his fans for the support throughout his 13-fight UFC career.

Fedor Emelianenko has elected not to retire, citing a desire to continue competing.  His next opponent and date are to be determined, with the bout likely to take place in Russia.

M-1 Global President and co-founder Vadim Finkelstein confirmed “The Last Emperor’s” decision.

If everything goes as planned, an M-1 card will take place in Moscow or St. Petersburg sometime in the fall, with Fedor as the main event.

Finkelstein also hinted at a possible fight in Japan for New Year’s Eve.

Two former light heavyweights will collide at middleweight, as one-time WEC champion Steve Cantwell takes on Mike Massenzio.

The pair will meet on Oct. 8 at UFC 136 in Houston.

UFC President Dana White confirmed that verbal agreements are in place for the bout.

Teammates Antonio McKee and Jesse Juarez will occupy the top slots on this month’s card from Cage Fighting Championship, officials from the Australian promotion have announced.

Set to take place Aug. 26 at Big Top Stadium in Sydney’s Luna Park, CFC 18 “Juarez vs. Rodriguez” will be headlined by Juarez’s first defense of his CFC 170-pound title against Australian Manuel “Chalate” Rodriguez.

In the show’s lightweight co-main event, McKee will see his first action since January when he tangles with Jai Bradney.

Other CFC 18 matchups include Robert Whittaker squaring off against Corey Nelson at welterweight and Australian national judo champion Priscus Fogagnolo taking on BJJ stylist Andrew Profilli at light heavyweight.