Former UFC champion Kamaru Usman has refused to rule out a massive crossover fight with YouTube star KSI, but it appears the right payday could be needed to make it happen.
Usman, who once called for a blockbuster fight with Canelo Alvarez during his UFC prime, attended Misfits Boxing’s Miami show on Saturday. The former welterweight champion joined the broadcast team while also supporting his close friend Henry Cejudo at ringside.
Cejudo got the job done with an impressive split-decision win over Javon “Wanna” Walton, adding another successful sporting debut to his resume. After the fight, Cejudo and Usman broke down the bout on their Pound 4 Pound podcast.
Usman’s recent run inside the Octagon has been inconsistent, and his latest defeat to Dricus Du Plessis appears to have put his middleweight ambitions on hold. With his next move still unclear, the former UFC champion could potentially explore opportunities outside traditional MMA.
During the latest episode of Pound 4 Pound, Cejudo revealed that people at Misfits Boxing have discussed a potential Usman vs. KSI matchup.
The fight would have an interesting connection, with both men being of Nigerian descent and using “The Nightmare” as their fight nickname.
Usman, however, did not completely commit to the idea. Instead, the former welterweight champion appeared to focus on the money involved.
“Listen, like I’ve always said and like you said with RAF Wrestling and all these different things I never say [never],” Usman said before the podcast abruptly cut away.
KSI has not fought since Tommy Fury handed him a unanimous-decision defeat in October 2023.
The YouTube star has since booked two comeback fights but withdrew from both, citing a hand injury and an alleged illness. He is now reportedly preparing to undergo surgery on his hand, which could pave the way for another return to the ring.
For now, a Kamaru Usman vs. KSI fight remains only a possibility, but Usman’s “never say never” stance has certainly left the door open.
