Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (23-0) has named UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira (14-2 MMA) as one of his potential last two fights.
Talking to TNT Sport Boxing. Usyk was asked who he’d like to fight after claiming to have only two fights remaining in his career. Firstly, and predictably he identified the winner of Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker taking place on February 22nd as the next step.
Then, after a brief deliberation, the Ukrainian said the following, “Next maybe… Show fight, with Alex Pereira. Maybe, why not?”
No doubt this is a fight that has MMA fans salivating at the prospect. With MMA fighters not faring so well when making the transition to the boxing ring, many will believe decorated combat athlete Pereira could put on a good showing for us MMA fans.
Heavyweight King Oleksandr Usyk Calls for Alex Pereira “Show Fight”
Before taking the MMA world by storm, earning both middleweight and light heavyweight gold in just seven UFC bouts. Pereira was a decorated kickboxing world champion, holding multiple world titles and a record of 33-7.
While kickboxing and MMA are vastly different from boxing, Pereira does have one previous bout, winning via knockout. Boxing is considered one of the Brazilian’s strengths inside the cage, most notably his powerful left hook, which has scored him multiple high-profile victories.
Usyk is now considered one of the best to ever do it. What he lacks in global recognition he makes up for in skill. His calm and professional demeanour could be why Usyk has been overlooked when it comes to previous superfights.
Most notably Francis Ngannou’s duo of bouts vs Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua respectively.
At 38, with his career winding down, it appears Usyk looks to Pereira for one last huge paycheque. Usyk has done it all at both cruiserweight and heavyweight, winning every belt available in both divisions.
While a fight with Pereira isn’t proving much for his boxing legacy, he’s earned the right to earn one last payday. Unlikely to happen due to Pereira’s UFC contract, but it’s fun to imagine what if.
Does Alex Pereira stand any chance against Oleksandr Usyk inside the boxing ring?
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images and Embed from Getty Images
