Jake Paul, the social media star turned boxer, is set to embark on a new chapter in his combat sports career as he signs with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) to compete in mixed martial arts (MMA). Read about his journey and future plans in the MMA world.
| Jake Paul’s MMA Journey | Jake Paul, the social media star turned boxer, is set to embark on a new chapter in his combat sports career. After making a name for himself in the boxing world, Paul has now signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) to compete in mixed martial arts (MMA). While many know him as a YouTube entertainer, Paul has a background in MMA and plans to showcase his skills in the sport. |
Jake Paul’s MMA Journey
Jake Paul, the social media star turned boxer, is set to embark on a new chapter in his combat sports career. After making a name for himself in the boxing world, Paul has now signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) to compete in mixed martial arts (MMA). While many know him as a YouTube entertainer, Paul has a background in MMA and plans to showcase his skills in the sport.
A Multi-Fight Contract with the PFL
Paul’s decision to enter the world of MMA has generated a lot of buzz among fans and fellow fighters. He recently signed a multi-fight contract with the PFL, indicating his commitment to the sport. This move has sparked curiosity about how Paul will perform in the MMA arena.
A Previous Encounter with MMA
Although Paul is primarily known for his boxing career, he has dabbled in MMA before. There is a video of him facing Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt AJ Agazarm in a cage. While the outcome of the fight did not favor Paul, it showcased his early interest in MMA. Despite spending most of the match in unfavorable positions, Paul’s determination to compete in MMA was evident.
Training and Wrestling Background
Paul’s journey into combat sports started with wrestling during his high school days. Alongside his brother Logan, he gained experience in the sport. However, it is his dedication to boxing that has truly stood out. After an impressive amateur match against YouTuber Deji Olatunji, Paul has faced more formidable opponents, including former Olympic wrestler and UFC welterweight contender Ben Askren. His knockout victory over Askren caught the attention of the combat sports community.
The PFL and Future Opponents
With his signing to the PFL, Paul’s next opponent remains unknown. The chairman and founder of the MMA league, Davis, has expressed his anticipation for Paul’s debut inside the SmartCage. While Diaz was previously offered a significant sum to fight Paul, the opponent for his upcoming match is yet to be determined. The PFL’s new PPV Super Fight Division, which offers fighters 50 percent of the revenue from events, provides an exciting platform for Paul to showcase his skills.
Transitioning from Boxing to MMA
Paul’s transition from boxing to MMA presents a unique challenge. While his previous fight against Agazarm offers limited insight, it is clear that he has a long way to go. MMA requires a diverse skill set, including defense against takedowns, submission avoidance, and leg kicks. If Diaz becomes his first opponent in the PFL, Paul will face a formidable black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu with a history of successful submissions.
Advocacy for Fighter Pay
In addition to his ambitions as an MMA fighter, Paul has been vocal about fighter pay in the industry. He has criticized UFC President Dana White for allegedly providing fighters with only around 20 percent of the revenue share. As a co-founder of the PFL’s pay-per-view super-fight division, Paul aims to use his platform to advocate for fair fighter pay and promote PFL fighters to his global fanbase.
A Polarizing Figure in Sports
Love him or hate him, Jake Paul has become one of the most captivating figures in sports today. His journey from YouTube entertainer to professional boxer and now MMA fighter has garnered attention and sparked debates. Whether he will succeed in the PFL and make a lasting impact in MMA remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Jake Paul is a must-watch public figure in the world of combat sports.
