Oleksandr Usyk might not be done rewriting combat sports history just yet
The undefeated heavyweight boxing champion is reportedly eyeing a future in MMA, and the Professional Fighters League (PFL) is already pushing a dream matchup: Usyk vs. Jake Paul. It sounds like internet bait, but insiders say this one could be real. Dan Hardy, PFL Europe’s head of fighter operations and a former UFC fighter, told talkSPORT that Usyk is “dead serious” about making the jump to mixed martial arts.
The buzz started when Usyk’s rep, Sergey Lapin, floated the idea of the Ukrainian legend facing Paul in the cage. Not long after, PFL founder Donn Davis added fuel to the fire, suggesting 2026 as an ideal date. Even Usyk joined the hype by posting a face-off graphic with Paul on his Instagram, set in front of a PFL cage.
A Superfight or a Circus? Depends on Who You Ask
While Paul has yet to fight professionally in MMA, he signed with PFL back in 2023 and has teased a debut ever since. His wrestling background from his Ohio high school days gives him at least some groundwork, and he’s said in interviews that he’s “training seriously” for a future bout. According to MMA Fighting,Paul has been working with veteran MMA coaches to sharpen his skills.
But Hardy isn’t entirely convinced Paul would take the Usyk fight. “He’s not going to fight someone like Leon Edwards,” Hardy said. “He’s going to look for guys like Ben Askren, Nate Diaz-big names, but past their prime.” Hardy added that he wouldn’t be shocked if Paul tried calling him out next.
Paul’s fight history backs up that prediction. After debuting against fellow YouTuber Ali Eson Gib in 2020, he knocked out NBA vet Nate Robinson, beat Askren, and went 2-0 against former UFC champ Tyron Woodley. He later beat Anderson Silva and, most recently, claimed a decision win over Mike Tyson in front of 70,000 fans, per ESPN Ringside.
Usyk, though, would be a completely different test. A master tactician with knockout power and footwork few heavyweights can match, his transition to MMA would bring serious credibility-and danger.
If the matchup happens, it could become one of the most-watched crossover fights ever. And with PFL actively pushing into the mainstream and chasing big names, the timing might be just right.
For now, it’s all speculation-but the kind that sells out arenas.
Read the full article here
