Oleksandr Usyk's Team Proposes Blockbuster MMA Clash with Jon Jones
In a stunning revelation, the camp of Ukrainian heavyweight boxing star Oleksandr Usyk has opened the door to a potential mixed martial arts showdown with UFC legend Jon Jones. This crossover fight, if organised, could pit one of boxing's greatest modern champions against one of MMA's most dominant figures, sparking global interest in a battle for the title of the 'baddest man on the planet'.
Usyk's Final Fights and Career Twilight
Oleksandr Usyk, aged 39, is approaching the twilight stages of his illustrious career, having not fought since his knockout victory over Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July last year. The former two-time undisputed heavyweight world champion recently outlined his final three bouts before retirement, which include a return to action in May against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven in Egypt. This fight comes after Usyk relinquished one of his four belts, opting not to face Fabio Wardley, who was subsequently elevated to world champion status.
In an interview with The Ring, Usyk detailed his planned farewell tour: 'Rico is first, second is whoever wins between Wardley and Dubois and the third fight is my friend 'Greedy Belly', Tyson Fury.' This schedule highlights his intent to cap off his career with high-profile matchups, but it is the prospect of an MMA venture that has captured the imagination of fight fans worldwide.
Interest in MMA and a Shift from Jake Paul
Over the years, Usyk has expressed curiosity about transitioning from the boxing ring to the MMA cage. Previously, he was called out by social media sensation Jake Paul for an MMA clash, but according to Team Usyk's representative Sergey Lapin, that option is no longer under consideration. Instead, their focus has shifted towards a more formidable opponent in Jon Jones.
Lapin stated to Casinostugan: 'A fight with Jake Paul in MMA at this stage is not being considered. But we are always open to creative and interesting collaborations in the future. If we are talking about crossover fights, a very interesting matchup could be against Jon Jones in the United States. The best heavyweight in MMA against one of the best boxers of his generation could become a very big event if organised properly. Who is the baddest man on the planet?'
Jon Jones' Uncertain UFC Future and Contract Dispute
Jon Jones, a former dual-weight UFC champion, finds himself at a career crossroads. After retiring from the sport last year, he reversed his decision in hopes of featuring on the UFC's 'Freedom 250' card at the White House in June, only to be snubbed by UFC CEO Dana White. Jones has not competed since defeating Stipe Miocic in 2024 and is now seeking a release from his UFC contract amid a public dispute.
In a social media post, Jones addressed the situation: 'Yes, I have arthritis in my hip and it's painful, but that doesn't mean I can't fight. So let me get this straight, if I had accepted the lowball offer, suddenly my hip would be fine and I'd be on the White House card? That doesn't make sense. I even received stem cell treatment last week to get ready for the White House card, and training camp was scheduled to start today. I was preparing to be ready.'
He added: 'I understand business deals fall through sometimes, but going out publicly and saying things that aren't true isn't right. After everything I've given to the UFC, the years, the title defenses, the fights, hearing that I'm 'done' is disappointing. If the UFC truly feels like I'm done, then I respectfully ask to be released from my contract today.'
Dana White's Dismissal and the Path Forward
Dana White has firmly denied that Jones was ever in contention for the White House event, stating at the UFC 326 post-fight press conference: 'Never, ever, ever, which I told you guys a hundred thousand times, was Jon Jones even remotely in my mind to fight at the White House.' This dismissal has fueled Jones' frustration and could pave the way for his exit from the UFC, potentially freeing him up for crossover opportunities like the proposed fight with Usyk.
As both athletes navigate their respective career challenges, the prospect of a Usyk vs. Jones MMA showdown represents a lucrative and intriguing possibility. With Usyk eyeing a grand finale to his boxing career and Jones seeking new avenues outside the UFC, this crossover event could redefine combat sports entertainment, blending the worlds of boxing and MMA in a historic clash.
