UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman admits that boxing Canelo Alvarez might just be a milestone that he could chase.
It’s safe to say we’re in the era of celebrities and MMA fighters crossing over to the sport of boxing. We’ve seen the likes of Conor McGregor, Jake and Logan Paul, Ben Askren, and soon Tyron Woodley try their hand at the sweet science. Could Usman follow suit?
During a recent live stream on Instagram, Usman spoke to his fans. During the session, he expressed his belief that if he wants to box Canelo badly enough, he can get it (h/t LowKickMMA.com).
“I think I can do anything that I put my mind to. I don’t disrespect Canelo. I think Canelo is one of the best, one of the greatest of this generation and I do not disrespect him at all. I respect his skills and I think he’s a phenomenal champion. But I also know whatever I put my mind to, I go out there and I get it. So if it’s in the cards in the future, maybe we’ll dance, we’ll see.”
Canelo is widely considered to be the pound-for-pound best boxer in the world. He is one major title away from becoming the undisputed super-middleweight champion. The only title left for Canelo is the IBF, which is held by Caleb Plant. Talks between the two sides have reportedly fizzled out, however.
Canelo competes at 168 pounds. Usman tips the scales at 170 before each title fight.
While a boxing match for Usman may not be out of the realm of possibility, he has unfinished business inside the Octagon. “The Nigerian Nightmare” is expected to put his gold on the line against Colby Covington in a rematch. The bout will likely headline UFC 268 in November with Madison Square Garden in New York City being a possible destination.
