KAMARU USMAN called on Canelo Avarez to "give the world a spectacle" as he challenged the boxer to a Mexican Independence Day fight.
The UFC champion will face Canelo on September 1, during the iconic holiday.
Kamaru Usman called Canelo Alvarez a'show' and urged him to "give the world a good show"
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He said to BT Sport that Mexican Independence Day is his favorite day. It's right for him and Canelo, he believes, to show the world a show, provide the entertainment they desire.
"You know what, I've said before, it can only be done until someone does it. He's a great champion and I respect him.
"I must show him respect, but he should also show me that respect."
Canelo refused to rule out a crossover fight, but claimed Usman is just after a payday'.
On the MMA Hour, he said: "Maybe. Why not? You never say no. It's impossible to say no.
Canelo, 31 years old, said that it was not on his mind. I want to leave a lasting legacy in my career. We can discuss other matters later.
Free Bets: Get more than PS2,000 in NEW CUSTOMER DEALSConor McGregor, a UFC legend, was granted permission in 2017 to fight Floyd Mayweather (45), but lost it in ten rounds.
After talks were closed, Usman, the No1 rated UFC fighter, is interested in a similar fight with Canelo.
He stated: "I believe he said this week that they brought a fight to him that he is interested in."
"So yes, let's do it, if he's willing, his camp is willing, we're interested. Let's do it.
"Never before has pound-for pound - in their respective sports - come together like this."
UFC fighters cannot compete outside the promotion, unless McGregor is granted a special exemption.
Usman, who is 34 years old, acknowledged that talks are still being held with Dana White, UFC promoter, but urged his boss not to back down.
He stated, "Well, these conversations are still to have.
"But, you're aware, like I've already said, this fight is the greatest and most important fight in the history combat sports.
"And that's why we've got the biggest and most baddest promoter in the history combat sports, Dana White behind us."
The fight against Colby Covington was Usman's last fight. It took place on November 29th, the same night Canelo defeated Caleb Plant, 29, in Canelo.
White was seen watching Canelo win from cageside, and advised Usman not to fight the boxing star.
He laughed and said, "I saw the Canelo fight tonight. Canelo is not the one you want to fight.
"Come on man, let's stop that s ***.!" Let's see if Canelo would like to come over. Canelo doesn't want to be boxed."
