Dana White’s official foray into boxing could bridge the gap to making a potential blockbuster crossover fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Alex Pereira a reality.
"The Cat" has hinted that he is nearing the final chapter of his boxing career, with just two fights left before calling it quits. His top priority is a rematch with Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title, as he sets his sights on reclaiming his status as the undisputed four-belt champion.
Meanwhile, for his second bout, Usyk revealed last month that he’s open to facing former UFC light heavyweight champion Pereira — an idea that quickly caught "Poatan’s" interest as well. Sergey Lapin, a member of the undefeated Ukrainian champion’s team, suggests that booking the matchup may now be more feasible than it once was.
During a recent discussion with OLBG, Lapin noted that the UFC CEO's collaboration with Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority head Turki Alalshikh to launch a boxing league has significantly increased the likelihood of a crossover showdown between Usyk and Pereira.
We never say never about fighting the dangerous Alex Pereira, possibly partnered with Dana White,” Lapin said. “Dana's move to boxing could open the door for more fights between boxers and current UFC stars.
Dana is a capable guy, and with Turki's abilities, they would create a very interesting project. It will bring attention to our great sport, expand the fan base, attract new investment, and possibly increase the purses of the athletes.
Although White permitted former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor to face boxing icon Floyd Mayweather in August 2017, which became a historic event, he has traditionally opposed such crossover bouts. Whether the UFC top brass has had a change of heart remains to be seen.
"The Cat" was last in action this past December, when he put on a masterful performance against Tyson Fury in their rematch. He successfully retained his WBC, WBA, and WBO heavyweight titles with a unanimous decision victory.
Meanwhile, Alex Pereira's reign as the 205-pound champion came to an end at UFC 313 earlier this month, as he suffered a unanimous decision loss to Magomed Ankalaev.
“Poatan” has a deep-rooted history in boxing, boasting an extensive amateur background and even earning a professional victory in July 2017 with a TKO win over Marcelo de Souza Cruz.