MMA, or mixed martial arts, is a combat sport that combines various fighting styles, incorporating striking techniques from disciplines like boxing, Muay Thai, and kickboxing, as well as grappling methods from Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and judo.
Interestingly, Jake Paul, initially a YouTuber with a short boxing career, surprised many by defeating several veteran MMA fighters and UFC legends, including Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley, and Anderson Silva in boxing.
Who Is Jake Paul, and Why Is He a Hot Topic?
Jake Paul started as a social media influencer and YouTube star, but over the past few years, he’s transformed into one of the most talked-about figures in boxing. His rise in the sport began in 2020 when he secured a knockout victory over fellow YouTuber Ali Eson Gib. Since then, Paul has gone on to defeat former NBA player Nate Robinson and, more notably, MMA fighters Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley and UFC legend Anderson Silva.
In 2023, Paul continued to build his boxing record with a unanimous decision win over UFC veteran Nate Diaz in August. He followed this up with two more impressive victories: a first-round knockout of Andre August in December and a TKO win against Ryan Bourland in February 2024.
These fights brought his record to 9 wins and 1 loss, with his only defeat coming against Tommy Fury in early 2023. These fights brought his record to 9 wins and 1 loss, with his only defeat coming against Tommy Fury in early 2023.
With his reputation growing and eyes on his next move, Paul is now set to face his biggest challenge yet — a much-anticipated boxing match against legendary fighter Mike Tyson on Friday, Nov. 15, at AT&T Stadium, which will be aired on Netflix at 8 p.m. ET.
As excitement builds, Jake Paul Vs Mike Tyson Betting has already become a hot topic. Fans and analysts speculate on whether the 27-year-old Jake Paul, with his 9-1 record, can really stand a chance against 58-year-old Tyson, whose 50-6 record and iconic career have made him a boxing legend.
Jake Paul vs. Ben Askren: A Surprising KO
In April 2021, Jake Paul faced former UFC fighter Ben Askren, a skilled wrestler but not known for his striking. Many questioned if Paul could handle a legitimate fighter, but he silenced critics by knocking Askren out in the first round with a clean right hand, ending the fight in under two minutes.
Though Askren wasn’t known for his striking, the fight raised Paul’s profile in the boxing world, showing that he had the power and precision to finish a professional fighter. However, skeptics pointed out that Askren was primarily a grappler, not a striker, meaning Paul still hadn’t faced someone who could truly test his boxing skills.
Jake Paul vs. Tyron Woodley: From Split Decision to KO
Jake Paul’s first fight against Tyron Woodley in August 2021 marked a significant moment in his boxing career. Woodley, a former UFC welterweight champion, brought a level of experience and striking power that Paul hadn’t yet faced.
The fight was competitive, with both fighters landing solid shots, but the most memorable moment came in the fourth round when Woodley rocked Paul with a hard right hand that sent him stumbling into the ropes.
Despite this, Paul managed to stay composed and use his jab to control much of the fight, eventually winning via split decision. Though Paul came out on top, some questioned whether Woodley had done enough to secure the win and speculated that Paul’s inexperience showed in moments of pressure.
The rematch in December 2021, however, told a different story. After Tommy Fury pulled out of a scheduled fight, Woodley stepped in on short notice to give Paul another go. This time, Paul delivered a highlight-reel finish, knocking Woodley out cold in the sixth round with a devastating right hand.
The knockout was a clear and decisive win for Paul, cementing his reputation as a fighter with legitimate knockout power. The second fight silenced some critics who had doubted Paul’s ability to perform against a seasoned striker, although questions remained about whether Woodley, being past his prime, was still at his best.
Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva: A Battle Against an MMA Legend
In October 2022, Jake Paul faced perhaps his most skilled opponent to date: UFC legend Anderson Silva. Silva, one of the most feared strikers in the world at his prime, was both adept at striking with his fists and feet. At 47 years old, he was significantly older than Paul, but his experience and technical skill made this a dangerous fight for the young boxer.
The match was competitive, with Silva showcasing his signature fluid movement and tricky angles. Still, Paul managed to land the more impactful punches throughout eight rounds, ultimately winning a unanimous decision.
This victory over Silva added another layer of credibility to Paul’s boxing career. Silva, despite his age, was no easy opponent, and the win showed that Paul could handle an experienced striker with a solid understanding of boxing fundamentals. However, skeptics still pointed out that Silva was far from his prime, leaving the question of how Paul would fare against younger, more active fighters.
Final Thoughts
Jake Paul has shown that his boxing can hold up against MMA fighters. However, it’s important to note that Askren, Woodley, and Silva were either past their prime or lacked a striking focus in their careers(with exception to Silva). So, until he steps into the ring with an MMA fighter in their prime and known for their striking prowess, the answer to whether he can hold up against MMS strikers remains uncertain.
Colin spent the last 3 years writing for and with gym owners—from small martial arts schools in the Midwest to big fitness gyms in California. He has also worked with many small businesses over the past 10 years. He’s passionate about fitness, BJJ, reading, and dedicating every spare second to writing for fun. He wants to help business owners tackle the logistics of running a business so they can focus more on their passions too.