Oleksandr Usyk`s team has challenged Jake Paul to a surprising MMA fight.
Usyk has mentioned that he plans to have only two more boxing matches in his career, with a rematch against Daniel Dubois for the undisputed title being a priority.
However, after his boxing career, Usyk is considering a crossover into other combat sports. He has opened the possibility of a bout against UFC star Alex Pereira, 37, or an MMA fight with Paul, 28.
Sergey Lapin, one of Usyk`s trainers, stated in an interview with OLBG: “Usyk has always focused on fighting top opponents and building a significant legacy in boxing.”
Lapin added, “Looking ahead, as Usyk cements his status as a boxing legend, we are exploring various future opportunities.”
“Stepping into the MMA cage with Jake Paul could be very interesting, especially if it`s a financially rewarding venture,” Lapin noted.
Lapin also mentioned the possibility of a fight with Alex Pereira, potentially in collaboration with Dana White, suggesting that White`s entry into boxing promotions could facilitate more crossover fights between boxers and UFC fighters.
“Dana White`s involvement in boxing, alongside Turki Alalshikh`s capabilities, could lead to very exciting projects,” Lapin commented.
He believes such collaborations would boost interest in combat sports, expand the fanbase, attract investments, and potentially increase athlete earnings.
Paul`s boxing record includes 11 wins and one defeat, which was against Tommy Fury, 25, in 2023.
His most recent fight was a win on points against 58-year-old Mike Tyson, a match that sparked controversy due to the age difference.
Paul has also recently challenged Anthony Joshua, 35, after missing an opportunity to fight Canelo Alvarez, 34.
Joshua is yet to return to the ring since his knockout victory over Dubois, 27, in September.
Dubois became the IBF champion after Usyk, 38, vacated the title to proceed with a rematch against Tyson Fury, 36.
Usyk defeated Fury to unify the heavyweight titles in May but relinquished the IBF belt to proceed with their rematch in December, which Usyk also won.
Dubois, elevated from interim to full champion, was scheduled to defend his title against Joseph Parker on February 22 in Riyadh. However, Dubois withdrew due to illness, and Parker, 33, instead defeated late replacement Martin Bakole, 31, quickly.
The WBO has since mandated Parker to fight Usyk next, but Usyk prefers to rematch Dubois for all the belts.
Usyk previously defeated Dubois in 2023, although the fight included a moment of controversy when Usyk went down in round five due to a disputed low blow.
Lapin clarified Usyk`s immediate plans: “Oleksandr Usyk`s priority is to fight Daniel Dubois next, as Dubois holds the belt.”
“We are awaiting confirmation of the Dubois fight date, anticipating it to be held in Riyadh or London – major boxing hubs. Usyk is determined to reaffirm his position as the greatest fighter of this era,” Lapin concluded.
Elton Marrow