Jake Paul: YouTuber turned boxer to fight in MMA with Professional Fighters League
- Published
Jake Paul made his pro boxing debut in 2020
Jake Paul intends to fight in MMA in 2023 after signing a deal with the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
The YouTuber is unbeaten as a pro boxer from six fights but now wants to "disrupt" MMA.
Paul, who will compete in the PFL's new 'Super Fight' series, mentioned Nate Diaz as a potential opponent for his debut.
"I know this is a tough sport, but if I can do it in boxing I can do it in MMA," 25-year-old Paul said.
Paul will also hold an advisory role as the PFL's 'head of fighter advocacy'.
The American has been a vocal critic of the UFC and its president Dana White, in particular how much the organisation pays its fighters.
The PFL has branded itself as a "fighter-first" organisation since launching in 2017 and its new 'Super Fight' division will see fighters take home 50% of the pay-per-view revenue.
"A true 50/50 partnership with fighters that still allows them to be individuals," Paul said.
Two 'Super Fight' shows are planned for 2023, with two-time PFL lightweight champion Kayla Harrison expected to headline one of those events.
A date for Paul's first fight has yet to be announced but he also could feature in one of the 'Super Fight' shows.
Suggesting a bout with UFC legend and free agent Diaz could be a possibility, he said: "I'm so dedicated to this that I offered Nate Diaz a two-fight deal" Paul said
"First we box. Then six months later we fight MMA in the PFL. Nate Diaz, I am down to fight you in your own sport."