Regarded as one of the most dangerous UFC fighters of the current era, UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has opened up about his interest in fighting Conor McGregor in a boxing match.

Both Makhachev and McGregor are known for their accomplishments in the UFC. However, with McGregor's UFC contract now coming to a close, he received interest from Makhachev about boxing him.

Speaking to Ushatayka, Makhachev revealed his interest in boxing McGregor. According to Makhachev, he believes McGregor does not stand a chance against him in boxing. “Yes, maybe he's dangerous in the first round, but after that I don't think he has any chance. Honestly, regardless of the purse I'd box [Conor],” Makhachev said (via MMA Mania).

In an MMA fight, Makhachev would be the favourite to defeat McGregor because of his elite grappling abilities. However, in a boxing match, the fight gets closer since McGregor wouldn't need to worry about takedowns and could concentrate on landing heavy punches on Makhachev.

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Makhachev isn't mainly recognised for his striking abilities. Although he is a skilled striker and should be capable of holding his own on the feet against McGregor if they faced each other in a boxing match.

Makhachev recently defeated Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330. On the other hand, McGregor is still recovering from his ACL surgery, which he sustained during his comeback fight against Max Holloway earlier this year. As of now, there are no confirmed plans regarding McGregor's return, although he hopes to fight his last UFC bout in 2027.