Celtics' Brown has 'toyed with' UFC, boxing after NBA career

Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown is interested in competing in combat sports once he's done playing in the NBA.

Brown, 29, has even discussed the matter with UFC CEO Dana White, he told reporters Saturday at the NBA All-Star Game media day.

"To be honest, I've toyed with this, and I've talked to some people," Brown said, according to ESPN's Brett Okamoto. "Maybe post part of my career, I'd love to partake in something like UFC or even boxing. I've talked to Dana White about some stuff, but we'll see as things go on. We'll see."

Several former NBA players have crossed over to combat sports, including Nate Robinson, who suffered a knockout loss to Jake Paul in 2020, and Deron Williams, who beat former NFL player Frank Gore in an exhibition boxing match in 2021.

Brown, a five-time NBA All-Star, won a championship and Finals MVP with the Celtics in 2024. This season, he's averaging 29.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game.

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla is a massive MMA fan and has attended numerous UFC events.