The line between the UFC and Mark Zuckerberg has grown increasingly blurred over the past year, to the point where his involvement with the sport has become a headline in its own right. From his close friendship with UFC boss Dana White to his very real passion for mixed martial arts, Zuck is no longer just the CEO of Meta, he’s a prominent presence in the UFC ecosystem. With White reportedly seeking AI help to improve UFC rankings and finally even sitting on Meta’s board, we can’t help but wonder, is Zuckerberg trying to make a mark inside the Octagon?

According to up-and-coming 185fer Bo Nickal, we will see that very soon. The Meta CEO is not just playing around with the idea of stepping into the cage. He’s desperate to get in there and fight. The Penn State Alum recently shared some interesting details about the billionaire’s drive to compete in MMA on his podcast Nickals and Dimes. “He really wants to get a fight,” the undefeated middleweight contender said.

He also added that the successful business tycoon has even been in talks about potential matchups. But what’s more interesting is the fact that Zuckerberg’s desire to fight is seen as more than just a passing phase. Nickal described Zuckerberg’s athletic build, “he was probably like 5’11 maybe? 5’10, 5’11? He’s probably like athletic build 170, 185.” Nickal said treating him as a serious prospect. So, what’s the deal? Will we see the faces of Silicon Valley make their mark inside the Octagon?

As the world gets used to seeing Zuckerberg in MMA gyms, the UFC boss’ close ties to the Meta CEO have only deepened the connection. Beyond their professional relationship, White has repeatedly spoken about Zuckerberg’s passion for MMA, even noting that the tech mogul brings UFC fighters to his training sessions. “He’s super passionate about it, brings fighters out all the time to train,” White explained, making it clear that Zuckerberg isn’t just a fan. So what is he?

The tech mogul is a committed practitioner, at least according to the head honcho. But with the UFC’s approval, or perhaps lack of it, will Zuckerberg ever truly enter the cage? However, Nickal, who directly discussed this aspect, confirms that while it’s not certain whether it will be a ‘celebrity fight’ Zuckerberg is eager to get in the cage, “I mean I don’t know who he would fight like I don’t really know. But he wants to get one. He’s like ‘Yeah, I absolutely want to get one.”

Why does Mark Zuckerberg’s play for the fight spotlight feel like a rerun?

Flashbacks to 2023? Recall the buzz around the potential clash between Zuckerberg and Elon Musk in full swing. If not, let’s quickly walk through it. In an unexpected turn, the two billionaires exchanged social media barbs, with Musk challenging Zuckerberg to a fight. Zuckerberg, ever the competitor, responded, setting the stage for what was initially thought to be a charity match. And obviously, Dana White got involved, hoping to promote the money bout. “I’m all in on that fight,” White said.

However, after months of hype, Musk backed out, leaving Zuckerberg in limbo. Was this the end of the saga? Not quite. Zuckerberg’s desire to fight didn’t fade with Musk’s withdrawal. Instead, he continued to train, even sharing with those close to him that he was looking to fight in the UFC.

White as a true friend rightfully continued to aid the rumors, acknowledging Zuckerberg’s interest in MMA and the UFC. “He loves this sport,” White said. But Dana wasn’t about to rush Zuckerberg into a UFC debut. “I don’t know (about Zuckerberg fighting in the UFC),” White clarified, “but he wants to get in a bunch of Jiu-Jitsu training and potentially get a fight.” The UFC CEO seems to enjoy having the Meta CEO around.

Despite Zuck’s high-profile interests in MMA, it’s hard not to wonder if he is truly ready for a UFC fight. Is he a cage material? With his immense wealth and status, he has the potential to shake up the sport. But beyond the money, does he have what it takes to step into the cage, or is it all just a celebrity stunt?

As we watch Mark Zuckerberg train and continue to associate with top UFC figures, What do you think? Will he ever actually fight? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!