Oleksandr Usyk Open to Fighting Jake Paul

Serhii Lapin, CEO of Team Oleksandr Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs), says the unified heavyweight world champion is open to facing Jake Paul (11-1, 7 KOs)—but not under traditional boxing rules.

"Usyk has always focused on fighting the best and leaving a true legacy in boxing. But in the future, once his greatness is further cemented, we’ll see what opportunities present themselves.

A matchup in the cage with Jake Paul under MMA rules could be interesting—if it makes financial sense.

We also never rule out the possibility of a showdown with the dangerous Alex Pereira, potentially in collaboration with Dana White,” Lapin told media.

Usyk had a historic 2024, defeating former champion Tyson Fury twice. His next likely opponent is WBO interim champion Joseph Parker, as the organization has officially ordered a title defense. Parker even issued a creative callout to the Ukrainian.

Jake Paul last fought in November, earning a unanimous decision win over former undisputed heavyweight legend Mike Tyson. A proposed bout with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez later fell through.