Jaylen Brown isn’t just one of the NBA’s brightest stars — he’s already mapping out a jaw-dropping second act that could see him step into the cage or the boxing ring once his basketball career is over.
In a stunning revelation that has combat-sports fans buzzing, the Boston Celtics superstar confirmed he has held direct conversations with UFC president Dana White about a possible future in MMA or professional boxing.
“Maybe post part of my career, I would love to partake in something like UFC or even boxing,” Brown said. “I’ve talked to Dana White about some stuff but will see as things go on.”
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Even if Brown decided tomorrow to retire from the NBA, the three-time All-Star and 2024 Finals MVP would still have endless high-profile opportunities waiting. But the 28-year-old is dead serious about testing his elite athleticism, explosive power, and Olympic pedigree in the most brutal combat sports on the planet.
His comments come at a time when the league’s physicality is at an all-time high — the exact traits that could translate terrifyingly well inside an octagon or under boxing lights. While nothing is locked in while he’s still in his prime with the Celtics, Brown made it crystal clear these talks with Dana White were more than just casual chit-chat.
And that’s not all.
Jaylen Brown Wants an Unrivaled-Style 1-on-1 Tournament in the NBA
The same man who’s eyeing a potential UFC run is also pushing the NBA to bring back pure, no-excuses one-on-one basketball.
Inspired by the massive success of the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league, Brown is calling for an official 1-on-1 tournament during All-Star Weekend — complete with charity stakes and the chance to settle who’s really the best in the league.
“I’m actually a big fan of the one-on-one, off-the-dribble sports,” he said. “There’s some people I would love to challenge… Luka [Dončić], Shai [Gilgeous-Alexander], [Jalen] Brunson, Donovan [Mitchell] — I challenge all them guys 1-on-1. We could donate to whatever charity, let’s set it up.”
Despite the NBA floating a $1 million prize for a 1-on-1 event at the 2026 All-Star Weekend, it never happened this year. Many players are reportedly wary of the embarrassment factor, but Jaylen Brown — the guy who already jumped into the Dunk Contest and has never backed down from a challenge — is ready to throw down.
Unbelievable? Maybe. But Jaylen Brown just made it very, very clear: he’s not done competing when the NBA chapter closes. And the combat-sports world is now officially on notice.