Islam Makhachev has opened the door to a potential professional boxing match, revealing that discussions have taken place regarding a possible appearance under the Zuffa Boxing banner. The UFC welterweight champion and pound-for-pound standout joins a growing list of mixed martial arts stars expressing interest in crossing over into the ring, following similar ambitions voiced by Ilia Topuria.
Islam Makhachev Confirms Discussions With Zuffa Boxing
Speaking about a potential transition to the squared circle, Makhachev acknowledged that preliminary talks have already occurred regarding a future boxing bout. The project, backed by TKO and Saudi General Entertainment Authority chairman Turki Alalshikh, aims to establish Zuffa Boxing as a major promotional force built on combat sports principles.
«Tenemos buenas conversaciones sobre un combate de boxeo con Zuffa Boxing. Hablamos con el jeque Turki», stated Makhachev during recent media remarks. While the lightweight titleholder noted that no specific bout has been officially scheduled yet, he indicated that Alalshikh offered a direct line of communication for when he chooses to make the jump: «Él (Turki Alalshikh) me dijo: ‘Cuando estés listo para el boxeo, solo avísame y haremos algo’».
The Precedent and the Potential for Crossover Fights
Transitioning from the Ultimate Fighting Championship to professional boxing remains a rare occurrence. The most notable precedent occurred in August 2017, when Conor McGregor faced Floyd Mayweather in a blockbuster event that generated historic commercial numbers. That cross-sport matchup required extensive, months-long negotiations between multiple promoters, creating a framework that proved difficult to replicate.
However, the involvement of Turki Alalshikh and the establishment of Zuffa Boxing could streamline future crossover opportunities. Beyond facing traditional professional boxers, Makhachev suggested an intriguing alternative format: matching elite UFC roster members against one another under boxing rules. When asked about fighting fellow MMA stars in the ring, Makhachev responded, «¿Boxear contra otros peleadores? ¿Y por qué no?».
Ilia Topuria and the Roster Shift Toward Boxing
Makhachev is not the only elite champion eyeing a future in the ring. Ilia Topuria has repeatedly stated his intention to pursue professional boxing once his tenure and legacy at the top of mixed martial arts are complete, viewing the discipline as the ultimate test of his striking abilities.
Despite growing interest from fighters, a major hurdle remains in Dana White, who has historically resisted co-promoting or allowing active roster stars to take outside boxing matches. Observers note that the influence of Turki Alalshikh could ultimately help bridge the gap between fighters eager for crossover bouts and promotional management.
What Comes Next for Makhachev
Makhachev maintains that he is fully prepared for whatever competitive challenge arrives next, though official announcements regarding a Zuffa Boxing debut or his next UFC title defense remain pending. Combat sports fans can follow official UFC and promotional channels for upcoming scheduling updates.
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