Chris Avila has his sights set on greater challenges following his commanding win against Jeremy Stephens on the undercard of the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz fight.
This one-sided triumph marked Avila’s fourth consecutive win since committing to boxing full time, and he didn’t have to look far to identify his perfect next opponent. During the event at Dallas’ American Airlines Center, he spotted ex-UFC champion Anthony Pettis in the front row.
Pettis, who was present that Saturday evening, sparked an idea in Avila as he exited the ring.
“I brought up [Anthony] Pettis. I didn’t exactly challenge him, but I mentioned his name,” Avila revealed on The MMA Hour. “I thought to myself, he’s someone I want to face next. I’m hoping to square off with him before this year is over.
“Why not? He just finished a boxing match with Roy Jones Jr., and I’ve been focused on boxing. He’s entering the boxing world. He’s an experienced fighter and a true original gangster. I’m aware he fought Jeremy Stephens as well.”
Earlier in April, Pettis managed to achieve a majority decision victory over Jones in his first professional boxing bout, following a lackluster 1-4 streak in the PFL.
Although Pettis has not announced any plans to continue boxing, or perhaps return to MMA, Avila is convinced that it would be an exciting fight. Adding to the intrigue, Pettis has begun promoting his events, and with Avila supported by Nate Diaz’s Real Fight Inc., this only heightens the appeal of the match.
“It could be an enjoyable fight,” stated Avila. “He’s involved in promotions too. Real Fight Inc. just launched this weekend. I believe they might co-promote. The next Real Fight event is scheduled in Vegas. It would be awesome to make it happen there before the year is out.
“I believe it would be a major event, highly entertaining, and another opportunity for me to showcase my talents and stand up for my team and Real Fight Inc.”
Since switching to boxing, Avila has enjoyed success, defeating experienced fighters such as Stephens, Anthony Taylor, and Paul Bamba, as well as YouTube celebrity Dr. Mike Varshavski.
While he could step up to battle more seasoned boxers, Avila sees no need to forgo larger bouts with recognized figures. As with the Stephens fight, he aims to choose opponents that draw public interest.
“I’m open to [fighting more experienced boxers], but why?” he questioned. “I can continue to face well-known individuals, attracting more viewers. I see no reason to fight someone obscure who’s been in the Olympics since childhood. I want opponents with notable careers.”
For the foreseeable future, Avila is intent on pursuing boxing, though he hasn’t ruled out a return to MMA eventually.
“I plan to keep knocking people out in boxing,” he affirmed. “I’m seeking the largest fights possible. I’ll keep defeating my opponents one by one, one match at a time. I have no intention of quitting boxing, but when the time is right, I may return to the cage.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword: boxing
Who is Chris Avila calling out for his next fight?
Chris Avila is calling out ex-UFC champion Anthony Pettis for a boxing match, expressing interest in fighting him before the year ends.
What marked Avila’s fourth consecutive win in boxing?
Avila’s fourth consecutive win was marked by a commanding victory over Jeremy Stephens, as part of the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz card.
Has Anthony Pettis agreed to the fight with Avila?
As of the text, Anthony Pettis has not declared his intention to fight Avila in boxing or announced a return to MMA.
Where does Avila hope the fight with Pettis will take place?
Avila expressed interest in having the fight with Pettis in Las Vegas, and he mentioned the possibility of co-promoting the event.
What has been Avila’s focus since transitioning to boxing?
Avila’s focus has been on boxing since his transition, taking on well-known opponents and showing interest in major events. He has not ruled out a return to MMA eventually.
Who else has Avila defeated since moving to boxing?
Since moving to boxing, Avila has defeated a trio of veteran fighters: Stephens, Anthony Taylor, and Paul Bamba, along with YouTube celebrity Dr. Mike Varshavski.
5 comments
Avila vs Pettis?? man this will be fire! Cant wait to see it, hope it happens in vegas like they said.
not sure if Pettis is up for it, but it’s a fight that could bring the house down. Avila’s got confidence, but can he take down a vet like Pettis?
Who are these guys? I only know the youtuber Dr. Mike, Avila beat him?? wow! i might start watching boxing…
Chris avila is really stepping up his game, wouldn’t it be amazing if they actually co-promoted the fight, Real Fight Inc. sounds promising.
is Avila serious about boxing, or just seeking fame? Would love to see him back in MMA.