Khamzat Chimaev has stated that he would be interested in a boxing match against Conor McGregor under the Zuffa Boxing promotion. This represents a potential crossover fight between two of the UFC's most prominent personalities. Chimaev's comments add to ongoing speculation about which UFC fighters might compete in boxing matches through the UFC's new Zuffa Boxing venture. No indication was given about whether either fighter has actually been offered such a bout or if negotiations are underway.
Khamzat Chimaev has publicly expressed interest in facing Conor McGregor in a boxing match under the UFC's new Zuffa Boxing banner, adding his name to the growing conversation around which mixed martial artists might cross over into the promotion's early matchmaking.
Chimaev, known as "Borz," enters that conversation as one of the most dangerous fighters in the world. The 32-year-old UAE-based Swede currently holds the number-one ranking in the middleweight division and sits tenth in the pound-for-pound standings, carrying a 15-1 record built on relentless pressure. Training out of Allstars Training Center, he lands 4.04 significant strikes per minute at a remarkable 60 percent accuracy, while also averaging 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes — a grappling threat that would be neutralized in a straight boxing context.
McGregor, meanwhile, remains one of combat sport's most recognizable names. The 37-year-old Irishman from SBG Ireland holds a 22-6 MMA record and built much of his reputation on his southpaw striking, averaging 5.32 significant strikes per minute across his career. A boxing match would naturally suit his background, and his 2017 professional boxing outing against Floyd Mayweather established a template for high-profile crossover events.
Why it matters
- Chimaev is the UFC's top-ranked middleweight, making his potential pivot to boxing a notable storyline for the division
- McGregor's established crossover boxing profile makes him an obvious marquee opponent for Zuffa Boxing's early slate
- A pure boxing format would strip away Chimaev's dominant grappling game, creating an unusual stylistic dynamic
- No offer or negotiation has been confirmed — Chimaev's comments remain an expression of interest only
