Turki Alalshikh is busy with Dana White as mma champ Pereira challenges absolute champ Usyk

Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning undisputed heavyweight champion, is nearing the end of his illustrious boxing career. After successfully defending his WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO titles against Tyson Fury in December 2024, the Ukrainian powerhouse is mapping out his final two fights before calling it a career.

His first step? Facing the winner of the upcoming clash between Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker for the IBF heavyweight world title on February 22, 2025. But it’s his second potential fight that’s raising eyebrows—Usyk has expressed interest in a “show fight” against none other than UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.

“Next? Maybe a show fight with Alex Pereira. Maybe – why not? Alex wants to.” – Oleksandr Usyk

Why Usyk vs. Pereira Is More Than Just a Fantasy Matchup

While crossover fights between boxing and MMA stars have become a trend, a bout between Usyk and Pereira feels like more than just a promotional gimmick. Pereira, the UFC’s light heavyweight champion, is not just a mixed martial artist—he’s a former two-division kickboxing world champion in Glory Kickboxing, where he established himself as one of the most devastating strikers in combat sports.

But here’s the kicker: Pereira isn’t new to boxing. The Brazilian fighter has an amateur boxing background and even competed professionally in July 2017, where he secured a TKO victory over Marcelo de Souza Cruz.

Could Pereira’s elite striking pose a real threat to Usyk, or will the Ukrainian master boxer put on a clinic?

Pereira’s Growing Interest in Boxing: A Future Crossover Superstar?

Pereira has been vocal about his interest in lacing up the boxing gloves again. He previously responded to Jake Paul’s callout, showing a willingness to step into the ring with the YouTuber-turned-boxer. More notably, UFC CEO Dana White recently hinted at launching a UFC-branded boxing promotion, and Pereira was quick to express his interest.

“I’m ready. Let’s make it happen!” Alex Pereira

With Francis Ngannou, Conor McGregor, and even Israel Adesanya teasing crossover boxing fights, it’s clear that the line between boxing and MMA is becoming blurrier than ever. A showdown between Usyk and Pereira could be the next blockbuster event that attracts fans from both worlds.

Breaking Down the Styles: Usyk’s Boxing IQ vs. Pereira’s Power

Oleksandr Usyk, The Master Technician

Usyk isn’t just another heavyweight brawler. He is a master of movement, footwork, and precision striking. His ability to control distance, land clean punches, and outmaneuver his opponents has made him an unstoppable force in professional boxing.

• Key Strengths:
  Elite-level footwork
  High boxing IQ and adaptability
   Incredible cardio for a heavyweight
   Proven against the best, including Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury

Alex Pereira – The Knockout Machine

Pereira’s Muay Thai and kickboxing background makes him one of the most dangerous strikers in combat sports today. While his boxing fundamenpunch-ot be on par with Usyk’s, his one-punch knockout power is undeniable.

• 
   Devastating left hook (knocked out Adesanya in kickboxing & UFC)
  Unorthodox angles and striking setups
  Experience in multiple striking disciplines
  Mental toughness and championship experience

Could Pereira’s power be the great equalizer, or will Usyk’s experienceSide:alize the UFC star?

The Business Side – Why Usyk vs. Pereira Would Be a Massive Event

With crossover fights generating massive pay-per-view numbers, a Usyk vs. Pereira showdown could be a financial goldmine.

• Recent examples of successful boxing-MMA crossove(2017):
  d Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor (2017) – Over $600 million(2023)
  Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou (2023) – One of the biggest combat sports eveboxing:ecent years
  Jake Paul’s rise in boxing – Proving MMA vs. boxing sells

With Saudi Arabia emerging as the new hub for mega boxing fights, a Usyk-Pereira showdown in Riyadh could draw global attention.

A legacy-defining event for both fighters? Or just another show fight?

What’s Next? Timeline for Usyk and Pereira’s Next Moves

Before anything can happen, both men have 2025:ss to take care of:

• February 22, 2025 – Usyk awaits th2025er of Dubois vs. Parker
• March 8, 2025 – Pereira defends his UFC light heavyweight title against M2025?Ankalaev at UFC 313
• Mid-to-late 2025? – If both fighters come out vUsykvs.s, negotiations for a potential Usyk vs. Pereira fight could begin

Will this dream fight become a reality, or will it remain justRide—asy?

Final Verdict: Usyk’s Last Ride – A Must-Watch Saga

As Oleksandr Usyk nears retirement, he’s not looking for easy fights. Facing either Dubois or Parker first, followed by a potential blockbuster bout against Alex Pereira, proves he’s going out on his own terms.

The Ultimate Crossover Fight? What This Means for Boxing and MMA

A potential clash between Oleksandr Usyk and Alex Pereira wouldn’t just be another fight—it could be a watershed moment for both boxing and MMA. Combat sports fans are always looking for dream matchups, and Usyk vs. Pereira brings together two of the most feared strikers from their respective disciplines.

For boxing, this would mark another high-profile crossover, proving that elite MMA fighters can step into the ring and compete at the highest level. Meanwhile, for the UFC, Pereira’s involvement in a mega boxing event would add to Dana White’s growing ambitions in the sport.

But could Pereira really hang with Usyk in a boxing ring? History shows that MMA fighters often struggle when stepping into the squared circle against top-tier boxers. However, Pereira’s kickboxing pedigree and raw knockout power make him a unique case. If he pulls off the unthinkable and defeats Usyk, it could be one of the biggest upsets in combat sports history.