A big name is interested in getting into some fights at some stage in his career.
Things aren’t looking pretty for the UFC’s heavyweight division following countless criticisms of its current depth.
While there may be an argument that the weight class simply isn’t what it once was anymore, the promotion could still change this with some exciting signings.
The UFC failed to sign kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven to have him debut on the first event of 2026 before he decided to pursue boxing instead.
One fighter that may not have the experience required has been putting in some work and would certainly turn some heads if he was to step inside the Octagon.
With a badly injured champion and a lackluster roster, is the heavyweight division the worst in the UFC right now?
If not, let us know which weight class you think is in an even worse state.
Left: Tom Aspinall holds a towel against his eye after being poked at UFC 321. Right: Tai Tuivasa reacts after his fight at UFC 325
Credit: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC & GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP via Getty Images
Jaylen Brown says he’s had talks with Dana White about putting his love of martial arts to good use
While Gable Steveson could call for his UFC debut as soon as next week, he’s not the only elite athlete who has been tipped for big things inside the Octagon.
NFL star Maxx Crosby said that Dana White is convinced he could be heavyweight champion by 2030 or 2031 and he didn’t rule out the possibility of fighting at some stage in his career.
Meanwhile, another athlete who has already achieved a lot of success in his sport is actively pursuing the idea of competing in combat sports.
Jaylen Brown is a five-time NBA All-Star who was named the Finals MVP in 2024 when he won the championship with the Boston Celtics.
During a recent press conference, Brown’s background in boxing was brought up, which led him to speak about his ambitions to put his skills to the test.
“To be honest, I’ve toyed with this,” he revealed. “I’ve talked to some people. Maybe post part of my career, I would love to partake in some UFC or even boxing. I’ve talked to Dana White about some stuff but we’ll see as things go on.”
You’re Dana White for the day. Who’s the first fighter you sign to the UFC? 👀
Dana White speaks at the UFC 313 post-fight press conference.
Dana White speaks at the UFC 313 post-fight press conference. Credit: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Jaylen Brown fell in love with Muay Thai following a tough career loss
There are videos online of Jaylen Brown putting in some work on the pads and showing off some of his kicking arsenal.
In 2023, the Boston Celtics star looked to change up his offseason training in order to bounce back from a loss in the playoffs where he was disappointed in his performance.
A coach at Citadel Martial Arts in Boston pointed him in the direction of Muay Thai, which he quickly fell in love with.
Along with physically improving him as an athlete, Brown has spoken about the confidence boost and mental edge that this has given him.
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