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Following Nate Robinson’s Path, Kyrie Irving Hints at a Possible Boxing Career: “You Never Know”

Published 10/05/2023, 5:24 PM EDT

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How many times have we seen ex-NBA players turned into pro boxers? It’s a rare occasion. But more often than not, they are playing other sports, if not as ‘pros’ but definitely as ‘hobbyists’. Slam Dunk Champion Nate Robinson, at 36 Yo, switched to intense boxing training for a pro boxing showdown. Going against a pro boxer didn’t really end well for him. But it was like pursuing a new adventure and the thrill was the commitment to it, which is a hallmark of a great ‘athlete’. 

En route on the same path, with his new season with the Mavs on the go, Kyrie Irving has hinted at a possible boxing match in a media appearance. He was interacting with the media before the NBA Pre-Season international game. 

Would Kyrie be up for a boxing match?

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The media event took place just hours before the pre-season game in Abu Dhabi against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Kyrie and Luka Doncic will be finding grooves and synergy after a disappointing last season where the Mavs didn’t even qualify for the playoffs. With two of them set to play the entire season, the expectations are set high. As a former champion, his role in the Mavs is a valuable addition of experience to a dynamic roster. While speaking on his role with the Mavs, he said that both he and Luka knew what they “want to accomplish together”. 

When asked if he would consider participating in a professional boxing match. Irving responded after a brief pause, “You never know what the future holds.”

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He added, “I haven’t been able to box in a long time. I would look forward to it happening.” Clearly, Uncle Drew has taken up boxing if not professionally, but as a hobbyist. 

In 2020, Nate Robinson faced off against 23 YO Jake Paul. He had started the preparation months before the match.

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Echoes of Nate Robinson’s boxing debut

Waking up early, long runs, and the brutal cardio sessions while pursuing Boxing had Robinson admit that “It’s really tuning me into another part of myself that I never knew I had”.

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The face-off was super hyped for an exhibition game. Experience mattered in favor of the ex-youtuber and the match ended, with Paul scoring a knockout in the second round and securing a KO. 

Watch This Story: “Without Kevin Durant, LeBron (James) Got Steph in His Backpocket”: ex-Teammates Give Lakers Superstar an Upper Edge For the 5th Ring

It remains to be seen if Kyrie is serious about pursuing a pro-box match since his priorities for now seem to be the pre-season games. His affirmation, although suggests that he is open to the idea. If he does get into a pro fight, it will be interesting to see who his opponent will be and whether he can survive the actual physical combat.

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Written by:

Chetan Kumar

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Chetan is an NBA content writer at Essentially Sports. Being an active basketball player since his school days, he has always been a dedicated follower of the NBA. His passion for the game has drove him to pursue a career in sports journalism.
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Edited by:

Bilal Handoo