Jake Paul has chosen not to go for an immediate rematch with Tommy Fury, and instead announced a fight with UFC legend, Nate Diaz.
The YouTuber turned 6-1 fighter’s brash entry into the world of combat sports took a hit this year when he was outpointed by Fury in Saudi Arabia.
Rather than running it back – which he had the option to do – the 26-year-old has announced that he will face MMA star, Nate Diaz. Paul shared the news with a message in typical trash-talking style.
“August 5th we commemorate the funeral for Nathaniel Diaz as we send him in casket back to Dana. Refreshments will be provided at the service. Black Tie Attire.”
August 5th we commemorate the funeral for Nathaniel Diaz as we send him in casket back to Dana.
Refreshments will be provided at the service. Black Tie Attire.
Watch #PaulDiaz live on DAZN PPV globally.
Follow @MostVpromotions for the latest updates. pic.twitter.com/vqI4wRD1qf
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) April 12, 2023
Promoted by his company, MVP, the bout will be on DAZN PPV globally, with a price point yet to be announced. The fight is scheduled for eight rounds at a catchweight of 185lb, and will take place at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.
Diaz has been on the end of Paul’s call outs for some years now, and the 37-year-old now has the ability to make it happen after finishing his UFC contract in September of 2022.
A fan favourite known for his tremendous durability, striking and jiu jitsu, the Stockton native has shared the octagon twice with Conor McGregor, and enters the boxing space with an MMA record of 21 wins and 13 losses.
The bout represents a regression for Paul as a professional boxer. Many fans felt that he had to right the wrong of the Fury loss, or at least attempt it, if he was to be taken as seriously as the claims he makes.
Whilst this event will likely do bigger numbers in the US, it’s a step back to the safe haven of fighting ageing MMA fighters.