In a surprising twist to the ever-evolving world of combat sports, boxing heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has hinted at a potential showdown with UFC middleweight titleholder Alex Pereira. While UFC CEO Dana White has long been critical of “stupid” crossover fights that pit champions from different disciplines against each other, the possibility of this clash has captured the imagination of fans worldwide.

Usyk, who is widely regarded as one of the best boxers in the world, recently discussed his future plans, revealing a two-fight retirement strategy that could include a spectacle fight with Pereira. “First, is who wins the next fight on Feb. 22,” Usyk told TNT Sports. “Next? Maybe a show fight with Alex Pereira. Maybe … why not? Alex wants to.” This statement has generated significant buzz, especially after Pereira publicly called out Usyk just weeks ago.

Before any crossover bout can take place, Oleksandr Usyk must first defend his boxing belts in a crucial clash against the winner of the upcoming bout between Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker on February 22 in Riyadh. Meanwhile, Pereira, who made waves in the UFC after dethroning Israel Adesanya, is set to face Magomed Ankalaev in a highly anticipated UFC 313 main event on March 8 in Las Vegas.

If Usyk successfully defends his titles and Pereira continues to dominate in the UFC, fans could see the two stars finally collide in a historic matchup that merges the worlds of boxing and MMA. While the logistics of such a fight are far from confirmed, the excitement surrounding the possibility has certainly raised the stakes for both athletes in their respective combat sports.

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