Oleksandr Usyk is the current undisputed heavyweight champion.
The Ukrainian great achieved that honour for the second time when he knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round of their battle at Wembley Stadium in July to add the IBF belt to his WBC, WBA and WBO collection.
Attention has already turned to who Usyk may now take on next, with a mandatory defence against Joseph Parker and a trilogy contest against Tyson Fury suggested as potential options.
One shock name that has also emerged is YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, who is fresh from his victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June. Paul has also been linked to a bout with Anthony Joshua, but it appears that ‘The Problem Child’ also has Usyk in his sights.
Director of Team Usyk Sergey Lapin has now spoken out about the possible clash, telling Plejmo that talks have taken place for an MMA bout.
“The team is currently working on the next fight. We’re looking at a few options, focusing on those who make sense both sport-wise and in terms of audience interest and status. Almost every fighter has called out Jake Paul. But our story is different.
“For us it’s about MMA, something non-standard, and that’s where its power lies. We’re not talking about a boxing match with Oleksandr Usyk, no disrespect to Jake, but in MMA the chances are more even. Jake has some experience, while Oleksandr would have to adapt quickly. This could become a massive show with a huge global audience. Talks are already underway, and if everything lines up, the fight could happen early next year.”
The shock fight may not be high on the wishlist of many boxing fans, with the majority feeling that New Zealander Parker is who deserves the next crack at Usyk.