The combat sports world thrives on wild “what if” scenarios, but few are as eye-catching as the thought of NBA legend LeBron James stepping into a cage with UFC icon Khabib Nurmagomedov. The basketball superstar is one of the most dominant athletes of all time, but how would he fare against the undefeated former lightweight champion in a fight? UFC president Dana White gave his take on the fantasy matchup, and his answer was as brutal as it was clear.

Dana White’s Verdict

When asked about the possibility of LeBron James fighting Khabib, Dana White didn’t hesitate. He said:
“He’s gonna get him and he’s gonna strangle him, or rip his arm off.”

White’s response underlines the massive difference between size, strength, and actual combat skill. While LeBron is a 6’9, 250-pound athlete known for his unmatched speed and power on the basketball court, Khabib is a lifelong martial artist with an undefeated record of 29-0 in MMA.

Size vs Skill: Who Wins?

On paper, LeBron James has the physical advantages. He is taller, heavier, and one of the most gifted athletes in the world. But in mixed martial arts, skill and technique often outweigh raw size. Khabib’s grappling and ground control are legendary—he dominated world-class fighters with ease, using sambo and wrestling to overwhelm opponents regardless of size.

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In Dana White’s eyes, the outcome wouldn’t even be close. Khabib would take LeBron down, control him, and end the fight with either a choke or joint lock.

Why the Matchup Fascinates Fans

Fantasy fights like this catch attention because they pit two worlds against each other: elite athleticism versus elite combat mastery. LeBron James represents dominance in basketball, while Khabib embodies perfection in MMA. Even if the matchup is unlikely, it sparks debate about how crossover athletes would fare in other sports.

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