Although a win for Alexander could put a nail in the coffin for the showdown between Fedor and Barnett, it seems highly doubtful it would end the possibility. It would most certainly make it less intriguing for some fans, but Barnett is dangerous enough to be considered competition to Fedor's skill. He's also one of the only heavyweights out there with the kind of skills that can potentially defeat "The Last Emperor".

The most prominent question asked about this rumor is for what reason would M-1 Global book Alexander instead of Fedor. Why would they risk Barnett being defeated and not cashing in on the Barnett vs. Fedor super fight?

Here's some reasons:

1. Rematch of the PRIDE Total Elimination Absolute fight between the two, Barnett won their first encounter.

2. Barnett wins, and M-1 Global's marketing department plays a revenge angle for the Fedor vs. Barnett fight. It has been used before in PRIDE.

3. Barnett simply hasn't fought a real MMA fight in over a year and wants a fight that he believes he can handle before taking on Fedor.

4. M-1 Global doesn't feel they can sell Fedor vs. Barnett effectively in the U.S. or feel it will produce more buys in Japan.

Do any of these reasons fit the bill? My take is that Josh Barnett simply isn't ready for Fedor just yet. With an April card in the United States, I'm not entirely convinced that they can sell Barnett vs. Fedor. It may be a better sell for another card in Japan where both names were established PRIDE veterans.

Fedor vs. Schilt and Alexander vs. Barnett should produce Fedor vs. Barnett, but that's a wish that may not come true. It's not entirely impossible that Alexander pulls off an upset. Schilt, on the other hand, still doesn't have the ground game to beat top 10 heavyweights, expect another Fedor win.

In any case, the fight will most likely happen within the year. Relax and enjoy the other mixed martial arts action for now.