OLEKSANDR USYK could be set for a shock career change after his rematch with Tyson Fury.
The slick southpaw became the undisputed king of the heavyweights in May when he recorded a split decision victory over The Gypsy King in Saudi Arabia.
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Usyk, however, will have to rematch the former long-reigning WBC champion in a second successive Saudi showdown in December.
A second straight win over Fury will have seen Usyk clear out the heavyweight division in just over five years.
And his coach has predicted he could make a shock move into MMA or even bare-knuckle boxing after disposing of the Brit.
His coach Sergey Lapin told Betway: “He’s proven he’s the best of this generation and, once he’s retired Tyson Fury, he will consider his options.
“Maybe that’s dropping down in weight again, or maybe there’s a wildcard option on the table for him.
“Be it in the boxing ring, the MMA cage or even Conor McGregor‘s Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.”
The prospect of a potential Usyk fight with UFC heavyweight king Jon Jones or even a boxing match with Jake Paul excites Lapin.
He said: “Can you imagine Usyk and Jon Jones fighting to prove they’re the baddest man on the planet?
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“Or maybe it’s a third fight with Anthony Joshua in the MMA cage.
“Maybe it’s Jake Paul at cruiserweight, although Usyk would need to fight him with one hand behind his back though to make it fair.”
Before Usyk can entertain the prospect of competing in another sport, he has the small matter of handing Fury his second successive loss.
The pair will renew their Riyadh rivalry on December 21 and Fury will enter the showdown fuelled by the pain of having his undisputed dream being shattered.
He said in June: “Listen up! I’ve conquered everything in boxing – titles, records, the lot.
“But I’ve never had to come back from a loss.
“On December 21st in Riyadh, in the heart of the kingdom, the king will reclaim his throne and become undisputed.
“Usyk, I’m coming for you! Get ready for the Gypsy King!
“The path to redemption is all mine.
“I know what I have to do, I saw my shortcomings and best believe I am inevitable.”
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