Jake Paul’s next boxing match will be against former UFC champion Tyron Woodley. It is his second consecutive bout against a former UFC fighter. Paul knocked out Ben Askren, Woodley’s good friend and teammate, in just two minute back in April. Woodley was actually in Askren’s corner for that fight, and Woodley and Paul got into a heated altercation prior to the start of the match. That is likely what planted the seed for this fight to come together.
This match will happen later this summer, both Paul and Woodley told ESPN. The 190-pound match is currently slated for August 28, sources say. Several host cities are still under consideration, per sources, though an official announcement on the date and location is expected shortly.
Paul was quick to put a statement out regarding his fourth professional fight. “I have a list of people I plan on shutting up with my fists,” Paul said. “And as I enter my fourth pro fight, I am excited to knock the first one off the list by challenging myself against a five-time UFC champion known for his knockout power. Tyron’s a seasoned striker who has fought the best in the world. I certainly respect his career, but I will be sending Tyron into a permanent siesta on August 28. Maybe this time [UFC president] Dana White will actually be a man and put his money on his former champion instead of trying to undermine my success like a jealous ex. Influencer vs MMA: let’s get it on. It’s showtime.”
Paul’s adviser talked a little more smack on the subject. “In just his fourth professional bout, Jake is taking on much tougher competition than any boxer does at a similar stage of their career, which usually includes extended amateur experience,” Paul adviser and CEO of BAVAFA Sports Nakisa Bidarian told ESPN. “Floyd Mayweather, who was 84-9 as an amateur, entered his fourth professional fight against an opponent that was making his boxing debut and ended his career at 0-4. Moreover, in his 50th pro fight, after going 49-0, he fought Conor McGregor, who was making his boxing debut. Mike Tyson’s fourth opponent was 1-0 and ended his career at 2-23. Jake is taking on a decorated MMA champion, known for his knockout power. And please remember it is mixed martial arts, which if you go on the UFC website and look at their intro-to-MMA, boxing is the first martial art listed. Tyron Woodley has been training boxing for much longer than Jake has. This fight is going to be fireworks. Thank you Showtime for believing in our vision and partnering with Jake to do this.”
Woodley had differing thoughts on the fight. “Easiest fight of my career and biggest purse of my career all in one night,” Woodley said. “Basically, they brought me in to take out the trash. I can’t wait to shut this b—- up. This is getting done for the culture, the whole MMA community and boxing community, to rid this guy of combat sports.”
There is clearly heightened emotion and tons of anticipation building up to this matchup. The fight is for sure shaping up to be an excellent bout.
