Celtics' Jaylen Brown Discusses UFC Career Possibilities with Dana White

All-Star forward explores mixed martial arts opportunities after NBA journey

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown has revealed that he has discussed potential UFC career opportunities with promotion president Dana White. Brown, who has a background in Muay Thai, said he has "toyed with" the idea of pursuing a career in mixed martial arts or boxing after his NBA playing days are over.

Why it matters

Brown's interest in exploring a transition to combat sports represents a rare crossover between professional basketball and MMA. If he were to pursue this path, his existing martial arts training and connections in the industry could help facilitate a notable second career for the All-Star forward.

The details

During NBA All-Star weekend, Brown confirmed that he has talked to White about potential UFC opportunities. "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," Brown said. The Celtics star currently remains focused on his basketball commitments, with the team positioned well for a playoff push in the second half of the season.

  • Brown discussed UFC career possibilities with Dana White during NBA All-Star weekend in February 2026.

The players

Jaylen Brown

An All-Star forward for the Boston Celtics who has a background in Muay Thai and has discussed potential UFC career opportunities with promotion president Dana White.

Dana White

The president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the premier mixed martial arts promotion organization.

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What they’re saying

“To be honest, I've toyed with this and I've talked to some people. 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.”

— Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics Forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

Brown's primary focus remains on the Celtics' playoff push this season, but his discussions with Dana White about potential UFC opportunities could lead to further developments in his post-NBA career plans.

The takeaway

Jaylen Brown's openness to exploring a transition to combat sports after his NBA career highlights the rare crossover between professional basketball and MMA. If he were to pursue this path, his existing martial arts background and industry connections could help facilitate a notable second career for the All-Star forward.