Maxx Crosby, a standout NFL defensive lineman, has shown increasing enthusiasm for MMA, sparking speculation about a potential future in the UFC. Earlier this year, during an interview with CBS, Crosby revealed that UFC President Dana White and Hunter Campbell have encouraged him to pursue a fighting career. Crosby expressed that while his body has endured much, he remains open to exploring opportunities in combat sports.
Crosby’s Perspective on Transitioning to MMA
In his conversation, Crosby reflected on his mindset towards fighting and competition. He acknowledged White and Campbell’s confidence in his potential to become a UFC heavyweight champion by 2030 or 2031. Crosby emphasized his refusal to limit his ambitions and shared that if the timing is right and it aligns with his passion, he could consider entering the sport. He highlighted his athleticism, power, and speed as foundational elements for success in MMA but recognized that fully committing to the sport is essential.
“You know, it’s funny, Hunter Campbell and Dana (White), you know, they’re, they’re hilarious, and they’re fully convinced that by the year 2030 or 2031, I’m going to be the heavyweight champion, and I’m that type of person where I’m just never going to put a limit on what I do. I live one life and I definitely have certain things I want to accomplish and things I want to do, and, I’m never going to close the door on opportunity, so I truly don’t know,” Crosby said.
“[My] Body’s been through a lot, but if it makes sense at the time and if it’s in my heart and my soul that I want to go out there and go compete, it might just happen. You never know. So yeah, I love fighting. I feel like I got definitely the right mentality, the athleticism, the power and speed, it’s just about putting that all together and being fully in.”
Viral Footage Captures Crosby and Strickland Sparring
Recently, a sparring clip featuring Maxx Crosby and UFC fighter Sean Strickland surfaced online, showcasing an intense training session between the two athletes. The footage drew attention due to Crosby’s size and impressive skill while sparring against Strickland, who is known for his striking power.
“When Sean Strickland was throwing bombs against 6’5 255 lb NFL defensive lineman Maxx Crosby 😳 pic.twitter.com/LTyInYsgjZ”
Sean Strickland’s Admiration for Crosby’s Fighting Spirit
After their sparring session, Strickland expressed respect for Crosby’s toughness and dedication. He praised Crosby for his natural fighting instincts and acknowledged Crosby’s status as an NFL superstar who engages in sparring out of genuine passion for the sport.
Strickland described Crosby as “sending it” early in the session and called him “a badass,” emphasizing his hands-down reputation as one of the hardest hitters in the NFL. This endorsement highlights Crosby’s promising potential as he explores MMA sparring alongside established fighters like Strickland.
Implications for Crosby’s Potential MMA Future
Maxx Crosby’s growing involvement in MMA sparring, combined with encouragement from figures like Dana White and positive feedback from Sean Strickland, suggests a possible transition toward professional fighting in the future. His athletic background and openness to new challenges make him a unique prospect in mixed martial arts. Fans and observers will be watching closely to see if Crosby takes the next step toward competing in the UFC, potentially reshaping his athletic career beyond the NFL.
When Sean Strickland was throwing bombs against 6’5 255 lb NFL defensive lineman Maxx Crosby 😳 pic.twitter.com/LTyInYsgjZ
— FULL SEND MMA (@full_send_mma) February 28, 2026
