According to an NFL star, UFC President Dana White is confident that he can capture the promotion’s heavyweight title.
Mixed martial artists are often considered some of the most athletic athletes across all sports due to the diverse skills required. However, this doesn’t always apply uniformly, especially in the heavyweight division, where fighters vary massively in size and physique. Some heavyweights, like Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane, are extremely athletic, while others, such as Chris Barnett and Tai Tuivasa, are less conditioned. This diversity has led Dana White to believe that NFL standout Maxx Crosby has what it takes to become the UFC heavyweight champion.
Maxx Crosby has asserted that Dana White is “absolutely confident” in his potential to win a UFC title. Several athletes, including Brock Lesnar, have successfully transitioned from the NFL to thriving careers in the UFC. Current UFC heavyweight Josh Hokitt also had a fruitful NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals and San Francisco 49ers before going undefeated at 8-0 in MMA, including two UFC knockouts.
Additionally, top heavyweight prospect Gable Stevenson has made waves in the MMA scene. Though he hasn’t played in the NFL, he signed with the Buffalo Bills in 2024 but never appeared in a game. Known as one of the NFL’s most athletic players, Crosby is a big UFC enthusiast who frequently attends events and maintains close ties with Dana White and others in the organization. With current tensions involving his NFL team, the Las Vegas Raiders, Crosby recently addressed whether he sees fighting in the UFC as a future possibility.
He told CBS Sports, “Hunter Campbell and Dana are hilarious, and I’m completely confident that by 2030 or 2031, I’ll be heavyweight champion. I’m not one to limit myself, and there are definitely things I want to pursue.” Crosby added, “I’m not closing any doors. My body’s been through a lot, but if the timing and my heart are right, I want to compete. It could happen—you never know. I love competition… I have the power and speed.”
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Can Crosby replicate Brock Lesnar’s path to UFC success? While Crosby is acknowledged as one of the NFL’s most athletic players, he currently lacks any martial arts experience. In contrast, Lesnar’s earlier wrestling background was well-known, giving him a significant edge when he entered the UFC.
Fan Take: This news is exciting for fight fans because it highlights a rare crossover potential between two intense sports, opening new avenues for athletes. If Crosby succeeds, it could inspire more NFL players to explore MMA, potentially raising the talent level and popularity of the heavyweight division.
