Ilia Topuria stated that Oleksandr Usyk would be one of the few high-level boxers capable of succeeding in MMA. Topuria cited Usyk's movement and wrestling background as key factors. He believes Usyk would find success if he developed solid takedown defense to complement his elite boxing skills.
Ilia Topuria has publicly praised undisputed heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk, arguing the Ukrainian would be among the rare elite boxers capable of making a genuine transition to mixed martial arts.
Topuria, who holds a 17-1 record and sits at number two in the UFC lightweight division while carrying the number one pound-for-pound ranking, made the comments ahead of what has been an active period for the 29-year-old Spaniard. The Georgian-born fighter, who trains out of Climent Club, is known for his well-rounded game — landing 4.81 significant strikes per minute at 48 percent accuracy while also averaging nearly two takedowns per 15 minutes. He pointed to Usyk's movement and wrestling background as the qualities that would set him apart from most boxers attempting the crossover.
Usyk, 39, carries a perfect 24-0 professional boxing record and stands six-foot-three with a 78-inch reach — physical tools that would translate to any combat sport. Topuria's assessment was specific: he believes Usyk would need to develop solid takedown defense to complement his already elite boxing, but that the foundation is there for a credible MMA career.
Why it matters
- Topuria's endorsement carries weight given his own standing as the top pound-for-pound fighter in the sport
- Usyk's noted wrestling background makes him an unusual case among high-profile boxers considering crossover appeal
- The comments keep the conversation around boxing-to-MMA transitions alive at the highest levels of both sports
- Any movement from Usyk toward MMA would immediately shake up whichever division he targeted
