The long-awaited Jake Paul vs Nate Diaz boxing match is finally happening. After months of speculation and online arguments, the two will face off in an eight-round bout at 185 pounds. The event will be exclusively distributed by DAZN as a pay-per-view event.
Nate Diaz left UFC on good terms after his win over Tony Ferguson at UFC 279, stating in a octagon interview that he wanted to “take over another sport.”
Before leaving the organization, Diaz had assured UFC President Dana White that he would not face Paul in the ring. However, the latest announcement confirms that Diaz has changed his mind and is ready to box Jake Paul.
In a post-event interview, White shared his thoughts on the upcoming event and Diaz’s potential return to UFC. Although White did not want to comment on the action, he wished both the best of luck and hoped they would make a lot of money.
As for Diaz’s return to UFC, White expressed his love for Diaz and remained open to the possibility of his return.
Jake Paul views this upcoming event as a “do-or-die” situation. The card has reportedly garnered 20,000 pre-sale sign-ups within the first 36 hours. This will be Diaz’s first since becoming a free agent after leaving UFC. Diaz had been exploring potential bouts outside of the octagon and ultimately settled on this boxing match with Paul.
Paul, on the other hand, is making a comeback after his first professional boxing loss to Tommy Fury in February via split decision. While there had been talks of an immediate rematch, Paul will now face Diaz.
In a Twitter video previewing the card, Paul expressed his focus and determination, stating that he wanted to prove his critics wrong. He also acknowledged Diaz’s reputation as a fierce guy but claimed that he and his team had been talking too much.