UFC star Islam Makhachev has sparked excitement by backing former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua to transition into Mixed Martial Arts.
Speaking at a PFL event in Dubai, Makhachev praised Joshua’s striking but issued a challenge: “He’s one of the best boxers in the world. If this big guy improved his wrestling, can you imagine how good he’d be?”
Makhachev even extended an invitation for Joshua to train in Dagestan, the famed wrestling hub.
The “code switch” talk comes at a sensitive time. Joshua is currently recovering from a fatal car accident in Nigeria last December that killed two of his closest friends and team members.
While Joshua has resumed light training, his future in any sport remains uncertain.
A proposed March return and September bout with Tyson Fury are currently on hold.
Promoter Eddie Hearn admitted there are “no guarantees” Joshua will fight again, citing the heavy physical and emotional toll of the crash.
The hiatus has reportedly cost Joshua over £11 million in potential earnings.
Whether Joshua returns to the ring or attempts a “dramatic” move to the cage, the combat sports world is waiting on his next move.
