Over the last few years, several MMA fighters, including prominent UFC stars, have made the leap to boxing, often driven by the allure of a larger paycheck. While many have struggled to find success against seasoned boxers, the idea of UFC stars crossing over into boxing continues to captivate fans. Now, Alex Pereira, Ilia Topuria, and Max Holloway have been roped into the conversation. 

Source of Boxing, an Instagram boxing handle, recently polled its followers on who among Pereira, Topuria, and Holloway would fare best in boxing. Needless to say, the post quickly gained traction, sparking lively debates as fans analyzed the potential of these marquee UFC stars stepping into the boxing ring.

MMA to Boxing: Who’s throwing a winning punch?

Earlier today, Source of Boxing shared a graphic featuring the three UFC fighters with the caption, “Which UFC fighter would do best in boxing?” Before diving into which MMA fighters fans believe could succeed, let’s take a look at how those who have already made the leap have fared. The results might surprise you—or not, depending on your perspective.

First, there’s Anderson Silva, who held the longest UFC title reign in the promotion’s history and has participated in five boxing matches. He lost his debut against Osmar Luiz Teixeira but managed to secure victories over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and former UFC fighter Tito Ortiz. However, his most notable loss came at the hands of YouTube boxer Jake Paul.

Then, there’s Tyron Woodley, who faced Jake Paul twice and lost both times. Nate Diaz also tried his hand at boxing. He lost to Jake Paul but scored a win over former UFC star Jorge Masvidal. Mike Perry had a similar fate, falling short against Paul as well. Michael Page found some success, winning two fights in 2017 and 2018, though the quality of his opponents could be called into question.

Don’t forget Francis Ngannou, who nearly defeated Tyson Fury, just to get humbled by Anthony Joshua—after which he returned to MMA. Some may argue that many of these fighters were past their prime when they entered the boxing ring. In that case, fighters like Pereira (37) and Holloway (33) may not stand much chance in the sport. 

This leaves someone like Ilia Topuria as perhaps the best MMA fighter with a shot at success in boxing. Not to forget, the UFC featherweight champion already has amassed a reputation of being the best boxer in MMA. Netizens seem to have a similar understanding. 

Ilia Topuria—given the best shot at winning

With Holloway and Pereira well into their 30s, fans weren’t quite ready to back them. One user didn’t beat around the bush while sharing their candid view on the matter. “Max [is] too old now to do well in boxing, I think Ilia or maybe Strickland if he polishes his game up.” the user commented. However, Sean Strickland and Max Holloway are the same age. Topuria, on the other hand, is 27 and is currently in his prime and more importantly, undefeated in the UFC. 

The next user didn’t even consider Holloway in his take on the matter. “Ilia spars pro boxers and looks elite. Yes, Alex spars pro boxers too, but he leaves his hands down and just looks to trade. In a boxing match, that will get him clipped,” the user wrote. While boxing is a key part of many MMA fighter’s routines, it doesn’t make them proficient in the sport. Boxing requires a completely unique set of skills, which is why many MMA superstars fail to reach the mark in boxing. 

The next user felt Topuria should transition into boxing to get what he deserves. “Without any doubt, Ilia Topuria. He should be a boxer and get the proper paycheck he deserves,” the user commented. Topuria reportedly took home $3,992,000 from his fight against Holloway at UFC 308—safe to say, he is doing well. But his payout pales in comparison to what the top boxers make. 

Meanwhile, the next user flipped the question to ask whether there are any good boxers with Jake Paul running the scene. “The real question is what boxers out there are any good? Especially if you have a guy like Jake Paul running around running the sport,” the user commented. This take border on the illogical since Paul has refused to fight any boxer his own age. Despite that, he is making millions—he reportedly made $40 million for his fight against Mike Tyson. 

Another user came up with an entire list of UFC stars who would do well in boxing. “Suga, Topuria, Petr Yan, prime Max, maybe Poatan,” the user commented. Interestingly, after Paul had defeated Perry earlier this year, he offered to fight Alex Pereira. However, nothing has come out of it yet. 

That said, it appears most people have brushed off Max Holloway and Alex Pereira. Although general consensus suggest that Ilia Topuria could do well in boxing. However, his potential can only be tested when he actually gets in the ring with a proper boxer. Do you think he will do well in boxing?