Jake Paul’s Comeback Plans
Jake Paul, known for his transition from social media star to professional boxer, is making plans to step back into the ring by the end of the year. Despite facing a setback in December when he suffered a jaw injury after losing to British heavyweight Anthony Joshua, Paul remains determined to compete, targeting a comeback in the cruiserweight division. This information was revealed by Nakisa Bidarian, his partner at Most Valuable Promotions.
Impact of Recent Defeat
Paul’s recent defeat not only impacted his health, requiring surgery that included the installation of titanium plates and the removal of some teeth, but it also led to his exit from the WBA’s cruiserweight rankings.
Potential Matchups
Bidarian stated that while Paul aims to return to cruiserweight, he hasn’t dismissed the potential of a heavyweight showdown against former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou. Paired with insights into Ngannou’s boxing career, including losses to noteworthy fighters such as Tyson Fury and Joshua, the implications of a fight between the two are generating buzz, especially with Ngannou scheduled to face Philipe Lins in May as part of a women’s MMA event that MVP is promoting.
At a press conference earlier this year, Paul taunted Ngannou, asserting that he had avoided facing him, to which Ngannou retorted with an interest in finally confronting Paul inside the ring.
Training and Future Opportunities
Additionally, Bidarian has indicated that Paul has returned to training and shows eagerness for a comeback, stating,
“I saw pictures of him back in the gym with his boxing coach yesterday,”
suggesting his readiness to take on challenges ahead.
Looking ahead, Paul could possibly face the winner of the upcoming fight between Nate Diaz and Mike Perry, a matchup that Bidarian highlighted as an exciting opportunity in the MMA realm for Paul, considering his previously established rivalry with Diaz. The option of an MMA fight is something Paul is keen on, although he acknowledges the need for thorough training to adapt to the sport. Bidarian noted,
“He’ll need a concerted six to eight months of MMA training,”
emphasizing Paul’s wrestling background as a potential advantage.
Conclusion
In summary, Jake Paul is actively making arrangements for his return to boxing, potentially at cruiserweight, while also keeping an eye on opportunities in MMA, indicating his versatility and persistent ambition in the combat sports arena.
