Jake Paul targets MMA debut in 2027

The YouTube boxer appears serious about entering MMA and already has Nate Diaz in mind as a potential opponent.

Jake Paul's manager has shared an exciting update on his MMA plans following the announcement of a spectacular merger between the MVP and the PFL.

Jake Paul is a rather controversial YouTube boxer who has attracted a lot of attention with big fights, such as against Mike Tyson. Now, however, he also seems to be setting his sights on MMA.

He’s already had a hand in the sport, having organized several major events through his promotion, MVP. Now he has announced himself that he will definitely make his MMA debut in 2027.

"I look forward to putting my entire promotional muscle into our new company, returning to the boxing ring and making my MVP MMA debut"

he said.

Although Jake Paul was already under contract with the PFL, he never competed in an MMA fight. That’s set to change now that he’s expected to fully recover from the broken jaw he sustained in his fight against Anthony Joshua in the near future.

According to MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian, Jake Paul is taking this project very seriously. Apparently, there are even talks underway with UFC legend Royce Gracie, who could theoretically train him.

An opponent against whom the training would pay off is already being considered. He already fought him in 2023, though that was in the boxing ring. There, Jake Paul defeated his opponent on points, but in MMA, things would likely look very different. We’re talking about none other than Nate Diaz, who is considered a very experienced fighter. Jake Paul has already openly challenged him, saying:

"Now with this new partnership, I'm going to get into the cage. Nate Diaz, stop ducking. We need to make this happen for sports, to change the world, to change the history, and the landscape of combat sports forever"

So, officially speaking, this means that Jake Paul will be fighting in MMA. Although he says he’ll first have another boxing match, he’ll make his MMA debut afterward. What do you think? Is this a smart move?

To answer the question with my opinion: no, I don’t think so. It’s certainly good for attention and money, but MMA is something completely different from boxing. It covers several areas that require years of training. Personally, I don’t think he’ll make it there.