It seems that “crossovers” do not only occur in the world of comics or movies. It has also expanded to the world of boxing, where mixed martial arts fighters seek fights against professional boxers. Or YouTubers want to draw attention by facing retired pugilists. The commercial success that this type of confrontation provokes in the public is undeniable, where some have provided good sporting exhibitions, … but they are very few.
Now the undefeated UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria wants to leave the octagon to move to the ring, where he again expressed his desire to cross over to professional boxing and face the winner of the upcoming fight between Mexican superstar Saul Alvarez and Terence Crawford. Both fighters are on their way out, where at least the Mexican is not interested in “morbid fights,” after recalling that he rejected the invitation to fight against YouTuber Jake Paul.
Ilia Topuria seeks to expand his sports career in boxing
The UFC champion Topuria said his goal is to fight Canelo, whom he considers a reference and an idol for years. The Spanish-Georgian fighter wants the UFC to allow him to follow in the footsteps of Conor McGregor, who fought and lost against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in August 2017 while under contract with the mixed martial arts promoter. “Why not me? I’d love to box against the winner of Canelo and Crawford. But if I could choose, I want Canelo. He was my idol for many years and I feel like I can do it,” Topuria said according to several reports
Topuria, who recently knocked out Charles Oliveira in June to win his second UFC belt, is going through the best moment of his career. He has knocked out figures such as Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski, which has consolidated him as one of the biggest stars in mixed martial arts. However, he is now aiming at boxing and wants to prove that he can also excel in the ring. “Let’s do it, now is the best time,” he said
UFC champion gives his prediction for Canelo vs Crawford fight
His prediction about the fight between Canelo and Crawford, which will take place on September 13 in Las Vegas, sees the Mexican as the winner. “Canelo, obviously. He is a reference for me. I want my chance against him,” commented Topuria. “I feel I can beat him. If I have the chance to fight him, why not? Come on, Turki [Alalshikh], give me the chance to win the title.”
Canelo responded with respect when asked about Topuria. Although he did not commit to a possible fight, he made clear his admiration for the UFC champion. “I haven’t seen him fight a full fight, but I like him very much, I respect and admire him. Let’s see. First things first, now I’m focused on what I have in front of me,” said the boxer in one of his promotional conferences for his fight against Crawford.
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