Oleksandr Usyk has hinted at a potential mixed martial arts fight with Jake Paul, as the unified heavyweight boxing champion considers his final career bouts. The Ukrainian posted an Instagram story sharing a mock-up poster from the platform Ready To Fight, which suggested a clash under MMA rules.
Usyk, 38, has stated he will compete twice more before retiring, with Daniel Dubois and Alex Pereira previously named as ideal opponents. While Dubois is the current IBF champion, Pereira recently lost the UFC light-heavyweight title. The teaser with Paul, however, marks a surprising twist.
Jake Paul, 28, has a 11-1 professional boxing record, most recently defeating Mike Tyson in November. He has long planned an MMA debut, having partnered with the Professional Fighters League in early 2023, but that has been delayed as he continues boxing. Paul's only loss came against Tommy Fury in 2023.
Usyk became the first undisputed heavyweight champion in 24 years last May, defeating Tyson Fury, and repeated the win in December. He vacated the IBF belt, which Dubois now holds, and has been ordered to defend his remaining titles against Joseph Parker.
