Kristaps Porzingis, the towering 7-foot-3 Latvian star currently excelling with the Boston Celtics, has revealed surprising intentions regarding his future after basketball. While thriving in the NBA and earning a lucrative contract, Porzingis has begun contemplating life beyond the basketball court, teasing plans to pursue a career in mixed martial arts (MMA), a move that has sparked strong reactions from fans.
Porzingis’ Surprising Interest in MMA and His Current Involvement
During an interview with a Latvian outlet, Porzingis shared a playful yet candid interest in MMA as a post-basketball pursuit. He clarified that his remarks were partly in jest but confirmed he is already actively involved as an investor in an MMA-related venture. Though he prefers to keep the project details confidential until finalized, Porzingis expressed enthusiasm about his connection to the sport. He also disclosed having tried MMA training himself but refrained from serious commitment while under contract with basketball teams, respecting agreements made with the clubs he represents.
Fan Reactions: Support and Skepticism Surround MMA Ambitions
Porzingis’ unexpected announcement prompted a mix of support and criticism from fans on social media. Some expressed humorous doubts about the viability of the transition. For example, one fan remarked,
“One calf kick he’ll be done,”
highlighting concerns over injury risks. Another wrote,
“One of the most injury prone basketball players wants to do MMA post-basketball career, sounds like a great idea,”
pointing to potential physical vulnerabilities.
Conversely, there were supporters who believed Porzingis could succeed with proper training, with one fan stating,
“If he trains for a year, easily making the UFC unless hes allergic to punches. Lets see the debut, HW division is in dire need of talent.”
Another optimistic comment added,
“Top 5 rn if he started cardio kickboxing a year ago,”
suggesting his athleticism might carry over effectively. Meanwhile, some fans highlighted the significant skill gap he would face, including one who noted,
“A flyweight can double leg him and submit him,”
underscoring the challenges MMA demands.
Porzingis’ Deep Connection to MMA and Future Prospects
In the interview, Porzingis described MMA as his favorite sport to watch, revealing a genuine passion that goes beyond casual interest. The NBA star has a longstanding appreciation for the discipline, and his entrepreneurial involvement signals serious intentions toward the sport’s business side. Although he refrains from detailed disclosures at this stage, fans and observers await announcements about his MMA project with keen interest.
Porzingis’ decision to hold off on MMA training during his basketball career reflects careful planning and respect for his commitments to the Celtics and other teams. This cautious approach suggests he may dedicate focused effort to MMA once his professional basketball tenure concludes.
What’s Ahead for Porzingis and the MMA Landscape?
Kristaps Porzingis’ hint at an MMA career expansion adds a fascinating twist to his athletic journey, illustrating a rare crossover between elite basketball and combat sports. His involvement as an investor and potential future competitor may influence the growing popularity and commercialization of MMA.
Should Porzingis follow through, his transition could draw significant attention to the heavyweight division, which fans agree is in need of fresh talent. His unique physical attributes and competitive experience might provide a distinctive edge, though success will depend heavily on training and adaptation to MMA’s demanding skillset.
As the Boston Celtics star prepares for what lies beyond the hardwood, the sports world watches closely for updates on his evolving MMA ambitions and the potential impact on two very different athletic arenas.