Jake Paul is transitioning into the world of mixed martial arts with a major partnership to get the next phase of his career underway.
On Thursday, Paul announced that he was headed into MMA under a new deal with the Professional Fighters League. While insiders are keeping the exact dollar amount under wraps, PFL chairman and co-founder Donn Davis confirmed to ESPN that it is a multi-fight, multi-year deal, meaning the earnings could top the millions.
The popular Youtuber turned fighter has teased a new career in MMA for a while, even getting in the ring with a few MMA pros. This includes Tyron Woodley and Anderson Silva. His successful boxing career began in August 2018 when he defeated British YouTuber Deji Olatunji in the fifth round of an amateur fight. In January 2020, shortly after turning pro, Paul overpowered fellow YouTuber-turned-boxer AnEsonGib by TKO in the first round.
Now, holding a boxing record of 6-0 with four knockouts, Paul is ready to move on, but not just in the MMA cage. As part of his new deal with PFL, Paul will also be the Head of Fighter Advocacy. With this new role, Paul will also focus on increasing fighter pay worldwide. His first line of duty is offering MMA fighter Nick Diaz a two-fight deal. They’ll face off in a boxing match before linking up once more for an MMA match in the PFL SmartCage.
An official date for his first MMA fight has yet to be announced.
