UFC champion sparks debate by suggesting Anthony Joshua transition to MMA.

Anthony Joshua won again and challenged Tyson Fury (Photo: Instagram/AnthonyJoshua)

The idea of ​​seeing Anthony Joshua in MMA has been raised. He is the UFC welterweight champion (up to 77 kg) and one of the leading figures in grappling today. Islam makhachev He suggested that the former world boxing champion could be successful in the octagon if he decided to make the transition, given his abilities.

During an interview with 'Arena Fight TV', Makhachev revealed that he advised Joshua to train in Dagestan to develop his wrestling game, an area considered essential in MMA. According to the Russian, the Briton's physical and technical striking skills would already give him an advantage if he could improve his grappling.

“I told him to come to Dagestan to improve his wrestling. This guy is huge, very good at striking, one of the best boxers in the world. If this big guy improves his wrestling, imagine how good he can be in MMA?” he said. Islam makhachev to 'ArenaFightTV'.

Islam makhachev thinks Anthony Joshua should transition into MMA 👀

"This guy is huge, very good striking. If this big guy improves his wrestling can you imagine how good he's gonna be?"

(via ArenaFightTV) pic.twitter.com/pXqBIa64vI

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) February 15, 2026

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Anthony Joshua's numbers

Anthony Joshua after his rematch against A. Ruiz. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @anthonyjoshua

Anthony Joshua won the unified heavyweight title twice, between 2017 and 2021, cementing his name as one of the leading athletes of the modern era of boxing. During his reigns as world champion, the Briton also held the International Boxing Organization (IBO) belt.

In his professional career, the English boxer has 29 wins and four losses in 33 fights. Known for his high knockout power, Joshua has won 26 fights by stoppage, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dangerous finishers in the division.

Before his professional success, Joshua had already achieved prominence in the amateur scene by representing Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympic Games, where he won the gold medal in the heavyweight category.