Oleksandr Usyk vs Jake Paul could happen next in new sport as team director gives shock update

Oleksandr Usyk could face Jake Paul at the beginning of 2026 in his next fight.

Following Usyk's brutal knockout win against Daniel Dubois on July 19, Paul entered the ring for a face-off with the Ukrainian to further spark fight rumours between the pair.

Usyk's team director Daniel Lapin had previously declared that the two fighters had been confirmed to be in discussions to compete in their respective MMA debuts against each other.

Paul himself had suggested the bout could take place at the start of 2026, but it was believed that he could be behind traditional boxing opponents in the pecking order.

But Lapin has now revealed that Paul may be the next man to fight the current undisputed heavyweight king, away from the boxing ring and in the cage.

When speaking to Plejmo, he explained: “The team is currently working on the next fight. We’re looking at a few options, focusing on those who make sense both sport-wise and in terms of audience interest and status.

“Almost every fighter has called out Jake Paul. But our story is different. For us, it’s about MMA, something non-standard, and that’s where its power lies.

“We’re not talking about a boxing match with Oleksandr Usyk. No disrespect to Jake, but in MMA, the chances are more even. Jake has some experience, while Oleksandr would have to adapt quickly.

“This could become a massive show with a huge global audience. Talks are already underway, and if everything lines up, the fight could happen early next year."

As speculation grows on what the Usyk's next move might be, it may be time for a new venture in MMA.

Are Jake Paul and Oleksandr Usyk likely to have an MMA fight?

Usyk is yet to confirm his primary option for his next outing after beating Dubois, but originally plotted to have just one more fight before retirement.

During the post-fight press conference on July 19, Usyk confirmed to assembled media that he is also 'ready' to fight Paul.

And Paul's business partner Nakisa Bidarian expects the bout to indeed take place next year in an update from their end of the negotiating table.

He said: “Usyk has called out Jake multiple times in MMA. They’ve been in touch with us behind the scenes, saying they want to do that fight in 2026.

“It’s something that we definitely want to pursue.”

While Paul has been linked to fighting Anthony Joshua, having verbally set the terms for a fight in 2026, nothing has been officially confirmed.

The American seems to now have set his sights set on meeting the current king of heavyweight boxers in the octagon.

Although, following his bout with Dubois, Usyk was ordered by the WBO in July to defend his undisputed titles against Joseph Parker.