Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz boxing match set for Aug. 5 in Dallas
Social media star Jake Paul has his next boxing fight set against former UFC title contender Nate Diaz on Aug. 5 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Most Valuable Promotions announced Wednesday. Here’s what you need to know:
- The eight-round bout, broadcast on DAZN PPV, will be contested at 185 pounds. Both fighters will use 10-ounce gloves.
- Paul (6-1) is coming off his first career loss, a split decision defeat to Tommy Fury in February. He has wins over other MMA stars including Anderson Silva, Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley.
- Diaz (21-13) is one of the most popular fighters in UFC history. He never won a belt but was victorious against the likes of Conor McGregor, Tony Ferguson, Anthony Pettis, Gray Maynard and Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone.
- Diaz has eight “Fight of the Night” bonuses in his UFC career, including two for all-time classics (one win and one loss) against McGregor.
The Athletic’s instant analysis:
Does this fight make sense?
Yes, on multiple fronts. Paul needed an opponent with both name recognition and credibility and he got just that. Diaz is one of the most popular fighters in MMA history based on his “anywhere, anytime, anybody” mentality and persona out of the cage. Remember, this is a guy who submitted an opponent by triangle choke while throwing up two middle fingers. He doesn’t care what anyone says, and that’s why people love him.
Diaz left the UFC because of a “love-hate relationship” with the promotion in February and wanted a fresh start. He’ll now have an opportunity to collect a massive payday against a big name in Paul, someone who didn’t start boxing until a few years ago.
Who has the edge?
It feels crazy to say but I give Paul the edge here. He’s been focused on boxing exclusively in recent years and has shown serious development since turning pro. Diaz has wear and tear from 34 professional fights and, at 37 years old, isn’t anywhere near the prime of his career. On top of that, his forte isn’t boxing. Yes, Diaz has the ability to put opponents away by striking, but only five of his 17 early finishes came via knockout. Diaz is a jiu-jitsu specialist and he won’t be able to use that skill set here.
Early betting odds have Paul as the -260 favorite, and I agree.
What they’re saying
“My last fight didn’t end the way I wanted, but the result was the best thing that could have happened to my professional boxing aspirations,” Paul said in a statement. “Now, the world thinks I am vulnerable, when all I am is more focused than ever. My team wanted me to take an easy fight like KSI next, but that’s not how I am built.
“Nate Diaz is considered one of the most badass fighters of all time, but he and his team have been running their mouths for too long. People tell me Nate has been training with Andre Ward for years. That he has insane stamina. That he refuses to back down. Good for f—ing Nate. I haven’t forgotten about the slap backstage in Arizona, and on August 5, a Problem Child is going to piece up and knock out the Stockton G.”
Diaz said “besides Canelo, he’s the biggest thang in boxing.”
“I’m here to conquer that,” Diaz said. “I’m the King of combat sports and then I’m headed back to get my UFC belts. I f—ed up Conor for acting out and now here I am again, like a superhero of the real fight game, the king of the real fight game.”
