Jake Paul has disclosed surprising private discussions about a potential fight against boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk, following his hint about a world title opportunity. The prominent YouTuber who transitioned into boxing was challenged by the heavyweight champion, and representatives for both fighters are currently in negotiations.
However, Usyk proposed facing Paul in an MMA cage rather than a boxing ring.
Paul, who is affiliated with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), intends to make his MMA debut next year, potentially against Usyk.
Speaking alongside MMA and boxing icon Holly Holm, Paul stated his desire to compete in the cage: “I want to be like Holly here and test my skills in the cage. That`s something I`m super, super interested in and I think it would be a very, very big spectacle. Nate Diaz is still ducking but we need to find the right opponent, Usyk maybe.”
Nakisa Bidarian, Paul`s co-promoter, confirmed: “Usyk has called out Jake multiple times in MMA. They`ve been in touch with us behind the scenes saying they want to do that in 2026. So something we definitely want to pursue.”
Bidarian also mentioned that the PFL organization is interested in hosting this potential crossover bout.
Before a potential clash with Paul, the 38-year-old Usyk is scheduled to rematch Daniel Dubois (27) for the undisputed heavyweight championship on July 19 at Wembley Stadium. Usyk previously defeated Dubois in 2023 and secured the undisputed title by winning two points decisions against Tyson Fury (36) last year.
Usyk has indicated he plans to have only two more fights before retiring and has previously challenged UFC prominent fighter Alex Pereira (37).
Meanwhile, the 28-year-old Paul`s next boxing match is against former middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr (39) on June 28 in California. This fight follows Paul`s points victory in November over Mike Tyson, whose return at age 58 was met with controversy.
Paul is returning to the cruiserweight division after previously competing at heavyweight and confirmed that discussions are underway for a fight against WBC champion Badou Jack.
Regarding Jack, Paul stated: “I`m super interested. I had Nakisa contact his team behind the scenes so those discussions are happening.”
This follows comments from the 41-year-old Jack, where he described a fight with Paul as: “It`s a money fight. It`s an easy fight and it`s a money fight So, why not?”
Percy Harlow