Anthony Pettis, the versatile fighter who’s made waves in MMA, boxing, and now Karate Combat, is keeping his options open for 2024. Pettis, known as “Showtime,” recently scored an impressive upset victory against boxing legend Roy Jones Jr. and is gearing up to face Benson Henderson at Karate Combat 43 in Las Vegas on December 15.
In a recent interview with MMA Hook, Pettis discussed his willingness to explore different fighting opportunities, including bare-knuckle boxing, after being called out by fellow UFC fighter Mike Perry. He emphasized that he’s a prizefighter and, while the allure of financial gain is there, it’s also about leaving a legacy in the world of combat sports. Pettis recognized the brutality and uniqueness of bare-knuckle fighting, acknowledging Mike Perry’s prowess in that arena. However, he also mentioned that negotiations would play a crucial role in any potential move to BKFC, as he hasn’t yet explored the specifics of their structure.
Despite still being under contract with the PFL, Pettis confirmed that he won’t participate in the regular season in 2024, citing the demanding nature of the tournament format on his body. He believes the tournament format is better suited for younger fighters looking to make their mark in the sport. Pettis feels that, at this stage of his career, he deserves the freedom to choose when and how he fights, allowing him to maintain his health and perform at his best.
Looking ahead, Pettis expressed interest in facing Cédric Doumbé when he returns to the PFL cage. Doumbé, known for his kickboxing skills, has gained a substantial following and would provide an exciting challenge. Pettis values fights that are mutually exciting and believes that both fighters should be considered strong contenders. However, he acknowledged that Doumbé is relatively new to mixed martial arts, so the organization may want to build him up before facing a seasoned MMA veteran like Pettis.
In the realm of boxing, Pettis teased a return to the ring in February against an unnamed opponent, indicating his plans to stay active in the sport. He mentioned sparring with Erislandy Lara, a top southpaw boxer, and expressed confidence in his boxing abilities. Pettis also entertained the idea of facing influencers or fellow MMA veterans in the boxing ring if the financial offer makes sense. He’s open to opportunities and eager to build his boxing résumé.
One intriguing possibility Pettis mentioned is fighting MMA legend Jose Aldo in a boxing match. He holds immense respect for Aldo and believes that the former UFC champion deserves a big payday in the boxing world. The prospect of a showdown between these two respected fighters would undoubtedly generate considerable interest among combat sports fans.
As Anthony Pettis continues to explore new horizons in the world of combat sports, his journey promises excitement and potential clashes with some of the sport’s biggest names, all while keeping fans eagerly awaiting his next move in the ring or cage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Combat Sports
Q: What is Anthony Pettis’s approach to his fighting career in 2024?
A: Anthony Pettis, known as “Showtime,” is keeping his options open in 2024. He’s open to diverse fighting opportunities, from MMA to boxing to Karate Combat, and even considering bare-knuckle boxing. While financial gain is a factor, he also values leaving a legacy in combat sports.
Q: Has Anthony Pettis made a significant move to bare-knuckle boxing?
A: Anthony Pettis hasn’t made a move to bare-knuckle boxing yet. While he acknowledges the uniqueness and brutality of the sport and respects fellow fighter Mike Perry’s skills, he emphasizes that negotiations and the offer on the table would play a crucial role in his decision.
Q: Why won’t Anthony Pettis participate in the PFL regular season in 2024?
A: Pettis won’t be part of the PFL regular season in 2024 because he believes the tournament format is more suited for younger fighters trying to make their mark. At this stage of his career, he wants the flexibility to choose when he fights and prioritize his health.
Q: Who is Anthony Pettis considering as his next opponent in the PFL cage?
A: Pettis is considering Cédric Doumbé as his next opponent in the PFL cage. He admires Doumbé’s achievements in kickboxing and believes that such exciting fights make sense for his career. However, he’s open to other matchups as well.
Q: Is Anthony Pettis planning to continue his boxing career in 2024?
A: Yes, Pettis plans to stay active in boxing in 2024. He mentioned a potential fight in February against an undisclosed opponent and aims to have three or four boxing matches in the coming year.
Q: Would Anthony Pettis consider facing influencers or fellow MMA veterans in boxing?
A: Yes, Pettis is open to facing influencers or fellow MMA veterans in boxing if the financial offer makes sense. He’s looking to build his boxing résumé and is open to various opportunities in the sport.
Q: What are Anthony Pettis’s thoughts on a potential boxing match against Jose Aldo?
A: Pettis has immense respect for Jose Aldo and would love to fight him in a boxing match. He believes Aldo deserves a significant payday in the boxing world, and such a matchup would be highly intriguing to fans.
More about Combat Sports
- Anthony Pettis Upsets Roy Jones Jr. in Boxing
- Karate Combat Official Website
- Mike Perry’s Bare-Knuckle Boxing Career
- PFL Tournament Format
- Cédric Doumbé’s Kickboxing Career
- Erislandy Lara, Top Southpaw Boxer
- Jose Aldo’s Boxing Career
