Jake Paul Challenges Ilia Topuria Over Boxing Match Debate

Jake Paul recently expressed his thoughts on Ilia Topuria, suggesting that Topuria is too small for a boxing match. This comment arose after a heated exchange earlier this year during a livestream where Topuria labeled Paul a ‘very bad boxer.’ Paul responded by calling Topuria and challenging him to spar, but no further arrangements have been made.

Paul stated, “I’ve proven it time and time again with the best strikers from MMA and just beat them pretty easily at earlier points in my career.” He criticized fighters who claim they can beat him in boxing, considering their assertions a joke. Paul remains eager to face any opponent willing to step into the ring.

He mentioned his attempt to arrange a sparring session with Paddy Pimblett, offering him $1 million, but noted that it resulted in silence from Pimblett. Paul expects a similar outcome with Topuria, who has yet to respond to the challenge. Paul said fighters often publicly express willingness to fight but fail to follow through.

Currently, Topuria is focused on his upcoming fight against interim champion Justin Gaethje at UFC White House to unify his lightweight title. Paul respects Topuria but believes that a boxing match would be an easy win for him. He stated, “In a boxing match, that’s honestly a warm-up for me.”

Paul acknowledged Topuria’s skills as a striker but emphasized the size difference, remarking, “It would be like playing with a little toy.” He also noted, “He can’t even ride a roller coaster. The guy is tiny.” If Topuria is interested in facing him after his title fight, Paul is open to the challenge.