Oleksandr Usyk`s team has suggested a surprising challenge for Jake Paul: an MMA fight.
Usyk has mentioned that he plans to have only two more fights in his boxing career. He is aiming for a rematch with Daniel Dubois to unify the heavyweight titles once again.
However, beyond boxing, Usyk is considering other combat sports opportunities. He has hinted at a possible crossover fight with UFC star Alex Pereira or an MMA match against Jake Paul.
Sergey Lapin, one of Usyk`s trainers, stated in an interview: “Usyk has always been focused on fighting top-level opponents and building a significant legacy in boxing.”
Lapin added, “Looking ahead, as Usyk cements his status as a boxing legend, we will explore various opportunities. Stepping into the MMA cage against Jake Paul could be interesting, especially if it`s a financially rewarding venture.”
Lapin also mentioned the possibility of a fight with Alex Pereira, potentially in collaboration with Dana White, suggesting that White`s move into boxing could facilitate more crossover fights between boxers and UFC fighters.
“Dana White is very capable, and in combination with Turki Alalshikh`s resources, they could create a very exciting project. This could draw more attention to combat sports, expand the fanbase, attract new investment, and potentially increase athlete earnings,” Lapin explained.
Jake Paul`s boxing record includes 11 wins and one loss, his defeat coming against Tommy Fury in 2023. His most recent fight was a win over Mike Tyson, which sparked controversy due to the age difference between the fighters.
Paul has also recently called out Anthony Joshua after missing an opportunity to fight Canelo Alvarez.
Daniel Dubois currently holds the IBF title, which became vacant after Usyk relinquished it to proceed with a rematch against Tyson Fury. Usyk defeated Fury to become undisputed champion but had to give up the IBF belt for the rematch, which he also won.
Usyk previously defeated Dubois in 2023, in a fight that included a controversial low blow call against Dubois.
Lapin concluded: “Oleksandr Usyk`s priority is to fight Daniel Dubois next because Dubois holds the belt. We are awaiting confirmation of the fight date with Dubois, and we anticipate it will be held in Riyadh or London, major boxing capitals. Usyk aims to once again demonstrate that he is the best fighter of this era.”
