Oleksandr Usyk recently gave up his IBF title before the much-anticipated rematch against Tyson Fury. However, he is gearing up to win another accolade in a whole different sport. The Ukrainian boxer has recently shown his interest in fighting inside the UFC octagon under MMA rules. And guess who he called out? None other than the Irish star Conor McGregor.
Usyk, fresh off his victory against Tyson Fury, seems hungry for a new challenge. In a recent interview with Boxing King Media, the undisputed heavyweight champion was asked whether he would fight in the UFC. As for fans’ excitement, his answer was a resounding ‘Yes.’
“Why not? McGregor, come on…I’m ready to fight,” stated Usyk.
This unexpected challenge has fans scratching their heads about whether Usyk is serious about trading his boxing gloves for MMA gear. ‘The Cat’ is a heavyweight boxer and has also fought at light heavyweight as well as middleweight throughout his career. McGregor, on the other hand, is a much smaller opponent. He has fought at featherweight and lightweight and is set to fight next at welterweight. If this bout ever comes to fruition, serious weight issues should have to be discussed.
The timing of this challenge is interesting, to say the least. Usyk is set for a rematch with Fury on December 21st. Meanwhile, McGregor’s return to the UFC has been a hot topic of speculation. Recent reports suggest he might face Michael Chandler at UFC 310 in December. So, will fans see Usyk vs. McGregor in the octagon? Only time will tell. But it’s certainly fun to imagine!
Oleksandr Usyk Asked To Retire After Tyson Fury Fight
The Undisputed heavyweight champion faced a dilemma after beating Tyson Fury, as his mother gave him some advice. The Ukrainian boxing sensation recently revealed a touching conversation with his mom following his victory over Tyson Fury.
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After achieving what many consider the pinnacle of boxing success, the Ukrainian boxer’s mother had a simple request. She wanted her son to hang up his gloves and call it a career. Usyk shared this family moment in an interview with Boxing King Media. He recounted his mother’s words.
“My mumma say enough? I say no. ‘Why? you win all’. I say yes but we have contract rematch. Listen, my mumma not understand English, mumma I love you I gonna continue boxing because I love boxing. I feel I have power, it’s my life. My wife told me, listen I know you’re not going to stop boxing ever. It’s my life, I am going to continue boxing. Mumma I love you,” stated Usyk.
However, the champ had to gently remind his mother about a small detail—the rematch clause. Oleksandr Usyk’s response to his mother’s retirement suggestion was both sweet and determined. His love for boxing runs deep; he described it as his life. However, it’s clear that retirement is the last thing on his mind right now.
This family dynamic adds a human touch to the often brutal world of professional boxing. Behind every champion, there’s often a concerned parent, a partner, or a child hoping they’ll choose a less dangerous career path.
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