Conor McGregor might soon face a new kind of challenge, but this time, it’s not him crossing over. Oleksandr Usyk, the Ukrainian heavyweight boxing champion, has issued a bold challenge to McGregor, proposing a fight in the UFC’s Octagon. This surprising twist adds a new layer to McGregor’s already unpredictable career.

Flashback to August 2017, when McGregor, the UFC’s star fighter, took on undefeated boxing legend Floyd Mayweather. Despite a 10th-round TKO loss, McGregor made headlines and earned a significant payday. Now, nearly seven years later, Usyk is eager to reverse the roles by venturing into MMA to face McGregor.

At 37, Usyk has established himself as one of boxing’s greats, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion in 25 years. His recent split-decision victory over Tyson Fury and upcoming rematch with Fury on December 21 only add to his storied career. Yet, Usyk’s sights are now set on a new challenge outside the boxing ring.

In a recent interview with Boxing King Media, Usyk expressed his interest in fighting McGregor in the UFC. He stated with confidence, “Why not? [Conor] McGregor, come on…I’m ready to fight.” Usyk’s enthusiasm for switching disciplines is evident, and he’s serious about the prospect.

Usyk has long been vocal about his interest in MMA, contrasting with the trend of MMA fighters moving to boxing. His sports director, Sergei Lapin, even took to social media to formally extend the challenge to McGregor. However, one major question remains: Will McGregor make a return to the UFC to accept Usyk’s challenge?