Jake Paul has drawn in big crowds during his pursuit of a boxing career, but he’s lacked a true, big-name star to validate his resume.
Yet it’s not for a lack of trying.
He gave Tyron Woodley two attempts and the former UFC star failed miserably in both appearances. Tommy Fury couldn’t even make it into the ring and Hassan Rahman Jr. simply blew his chance when he couldn’t make weight.
But now Paul seems to have found the big name he’s desired in Anderson Silva.
After two decades of MMA greatness, the UFC legend has left the octagon in favor of the ring.
First, he KOed fellow MMA legend, Tito Ortiz, in 81 seconds. Then Silva pulled off a shocking, split-decision upset over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in June 2021.
“I love fighting,” said Silva after the Chavez fight. “Boxing was my dream for many years. I needed to show my respect for boxing. I need to come here and do my best.”
Now Silva gets his chance at Jake Paul, the social media star who has successfully bum-rushed his way into the sport and made millions while doing it.
On Saturday, October 29th, Paul and Silva will battle on a Showtime PPV card, live from the Gila River Arena in Phoenix, Arizona.
“Anderson ‘The Spider’ Silva is the most versatile fighter the world has ever seen,” said Paul in a statement. “Just a year ago he outclassed boxing champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., and showed the world why he is often referred to as the greatest fighter of all time.”
Paul paid respect to the fighting legend, but make no mistake.
He’s not deferring to Silva’s legendary fighting status when they face off in the ring.
“Every expert, from MMA to boxing, has said Jake Paul won’t fight Anderson Silva. They said Jake Paul is afraid of Anderson Silva, and Jake Paul would lose to Anderson Silva. Well, to all the non-believers – Jake Paul is fighting Anderson Silva,” said Pual. “It’s an honor to have the opportunity to share the ring with the greatest UFC striker of all time. On Saturday, October 29, I will walk humbly into the ring, touch gloves with a living legend and do my best to exterminate ‘The Spider.’”
Silva is grateful for the opportunity and looks forward to squaring off against Paul.
“I believe this will be the biggest combat event of the year and will truly make history in the sport forever. See you on October 29,” said Silva.
If Paul defeats Silva, it could finally establish the credibility he’s craved from die-hard fans of pugilism.
But if he loses, his detractors will come out swinging.
Yet either way, you just know that people will watch regardless of the reasons why.
And, once again, Paul will take that all the way to the bank.
