Oleksandr Usyk might step into the MMA cage with Jake Paul. The undisputed heavyweight champion's team is looking at this unusual matchup for early 2026.
Usyk recently added the IBF belt to his collection of WBC, WBA, and WBO titles. He knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round at Wembley Stadium in July. The victory solidified his status as the top heavyweight in boxing.
Now, Usyk's team is considering some unexpected options for his next fight. While many boxing fans want to see him face Joseph Parker in a mandatory defense, or complete a trilogy with Tyson Fury, a surprising name has entered the mix: Jake Paul.
Paul, the YouTuber-turned-boxer, scored a victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June. He's been calling out top fighters, including Anthony Joshua. But Usyk's team sees a different opportunity.
Sergey Lapin, Director of Team Usyk, told Plejmo:
"The team is currently working on the next fight. We're looking at a few options, focusing on those who make sense both sport-wise and in terms of audience interest and status. Almost every fighter has called out Jake Paul. But our story is different."
Lapin went on to explain the unusual nature of their talks with Paul:
"For us it's about MMA, something non-standard, and that's where its power lies. We're not talking about a boxing match with Oleksandr Usyk, no disrespect to Jake, but in MMA the chances are more even. Jake has some experience, while Oleksandr would have to adapt quickly. This could become a massive show with a huge global audience. Talks are already underway, and if everything lines up, the fight could happen early next year."
The potential MMA bout offers a more level playing field. Paul has some MMA experience, while Usyk would need to quickly adapt to the new sport. This non-standard matchup could draw a massive global audience.
While talks are ongoing, boxing purists might prefer to see Usyk stick to traditional matchups in the ring. The coming months will reveal whether this unique crossover event comes to fruition or if Usyk returns to more conventional heavyweight challenges.
