Jake Paul's long-awaited PFL MMA debut appears to be no closer to happening as he focuses on boxing.
YouTuber turned boxer Jake Paul signed with UFC rival PFL in January 2023, looking for a new challenge. PFL president Don Davis confirmed that his MMA debut will be postponed for the time being as the 26-year-old is focused on boxing for now.
Despite signing a year ago and with several training videos circulating of Paul training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the wait appears to continue.
Don Davis told TalkSport: “He's putting even more effort into boxing now, there's no doubt about that.”
Jake Paul MMA debut
Controversial Jake Paul is set to take on now-retired boxing legend Mike Tyson on July 20 this year. Mike Tyson, 31 years older, wants to prove he's still capable. Many believe that the age difference is too large to ignore considering the grueling career Tyson endured.
Meanwhile, Paul believes it was too big an opportunity to ignore and is adamant that the boxing veteran remains a major threat.
“Problem Child” is currently on a three-fight winning streak after suffering his first loss at the hands of Tommy Fury last year. The two fought until a close score decision, with the judges awarding Fury the victory.
Having faced defeat and come back stronger, Paul is focused on improving himself in the ring before making the transition to the Octagon.
Jake Paul's MMA future hangs in the balance
Initially, his debut seemed imminent after signing with PFL, but MMA fans will have to be patient as 16 months later, no progress has been made. Don Davis came forward to reassure fans that it's not a question of if, but when.
“There was a time when he might have been 50/50 doing both, but now he seems to be 90/10 favoring boxing over mixed martial arts. So his growth in MMA It's not going as fast as we thought. Will he fight for PFL? One hundred percent. Is the timing delayed? you know.”
For now, Paul's focus is on continuing his lucrative boxing journey before turning his attention to mixed martial arts.
Featured image credit for embedding from Getty Images
