Islam Makhachev Discusses Potential Boxing Match with Conor McGregor

Islam Makhachev, the UFC welterweight champion, has shared details about a potential boxing match with Conor McGregor. Makhachev met with Turki Alalshikh, who suggested that he should update him when he is ready to box. The Russian champion expressed his optimism about the matchup, stating that he can hold his own against other MMA fighters in a boxing match.

Makhachev's comments follow a meeting with Alalshikh at a boxing event, where the possibility of a boxing match against McGregor was discussed. However, the decision to allow UFC fighters to participate in boxing matches ultimately rests with UFC CEO Dana White, who has expressed his reluctance to permit such crossovers. White's stance on the issue may pose a significant obstacle to a potential boxing match between Makhachev and McGregor.

Despite the potential roadblocks, the relationship between Turki Alalshikh and Dana White under the Zuffa banner could facilitate a matchup between Makhachev and McGregor. The history of McGregor's 2017 boxing match against Floyd Mayweather, which was facilitated by White, also suggests that a matchup with Makhachev could be made. However, White's concerns about the economics of staging crossover fights and the potential risks to his business model may ultimately prevent the matchup from taking place.