5 UFC fighters who could be successful in boxing

#4. Stipe Miocic - former UFC heavyweight champion

Besides being a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, 39-year-old Stipe Miocic is also a Golden Gloves boxing champion and NCAA Division I wrestler.

With an MMA record of 20-4, Miocic has run through many famous names in the promotion, including Daniel Cormier, Francis Ngannou, and Junior dos Santos.

Regarded as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time, Miocic has proved his mettle as a boxer. For instance, in his trilogy fight against Cormier, Miocic outstruck 'DC' 115-105 in significant strikes on target. With nine wins via knockout in the promotion, the 39-year-old seems eager to return to boxing.

Speaking to Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour last year, the American said:

“I would love it. I would love to, if I get the opportunity it would be great… I love it. I’d be over the moon for it, I’m telling you right now… It really excites me. I don’t know why, I think just because it’s different."

Watch the full interview below:

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#3. Dustin Poirier - former UFC interim lightweight champion

Former interim champion Dustin Poirier is undoubtedly one of the most underrated boxers in the promotion. Primarily a southpaw, 'The Diamond' is adept at switching styles in the middle of a fight.

The Louisiana native has been knocked down only twice in his career despite facing some of the best strikers in the promotion. Against a lethal striker such as Justin Gaethje at UFC Fight Night, Poirier landed 174 significant shots on target. He also showed sharp footwork and head movement.

Poirier also has excellent durability, evident during his fights against Max Holloway and Dan Hooker. 'The Diamond' went neck-and-neck with both fighters and absorbed 336 significant shots on target combined in both the contests. In return, he countered with 331 significant strikes on target.

Following his win over Conor McGregor at UFC 257, Poirier became the first fighter to knock the Irishman out in his career. With eight wins via knockout, 'The Diamond' holds the record for most wins by a KO/TKO in the history of the 155lbs division.