By Happypal 
Jake Paul’s boxing journey has never been short of headlines — from YouTube stardom to pay-per-view main events, he’s made himself one of the sport’s most polarizing figures. But after cancelling his planned November exhibition bout due to Gervonta Davis facing a civil lawsuit, the question now dominating conversation is simple: who will Jake Paul fight next?
The self-proclaimed “Problem Child” has built a brand around defying the odds and disrupting boxing’s traditional hierarchy. His next fight, reportedly planned for December, could be the defining moment of his career — not just for entertainment, but for legitimacy.
In this deep dive, we explore the current landscape of Jake Paul’s boxing future: the potential opponents, the promotional implications, and the strategic decisions shaping one of the most intriguing sagas in modern boxing.
🥊 A Sudden Twist: The Davis Fallout
Jake Paul’s planned exhibition against Gervonta Davis had sparked heated discussions across both boxing and entertainment circles. The idea of a crossover bout — part spectacle, part serious challenge — reflected Paul’s knack for tapping into controversy while testing his limits.
However, when Davis was hit with a civil lawsuit, the fight collapsed before it could be officially finalized. The cancellation left Paul without an opponent, a training camp hanging in limbo, and fans wondering if his momentum was in danger.
Still, Paul has made it clear he intends to fight again before the year ends. In a statement released through his promotion, Most Valuable Promotions, he reaffirmed his ambition to return in December — opponent or not.
“I’m ready to fight anyone who wants to step in. The show goes on. I’ve been working too hard to stop now.”
That determination sets the stage for one of boxing’s most unpredictable matchmaking puzzles.
🔎 The Shortlist: Who Could Jake Paul Fight Next?
Paul’s decision-making is part marketing, part match-making strategy. Every opponent he faces must check multiple boxes — competitive, financially viable, and headline-worthy. Here are the most realistic contenders currently in the conversation.
1. Francis Ngannou – The Power Play
Francis Ngannou’s name has emerged as a blockbuster possibility. The former UFC heavyweight champion turned boxing sensation made waves after his incredible performance against Tyson Fury, proving he can compete with elite-level boxers.
A Paul vs. Ngannou fight would be a collision of worlds — influencer boxing meets MMA royalty. From a commercial perspective, it’s massive. From a sporting one, it’s brutal.
Ngannou’s power, size, and experience would make him a serious danger to Paul. But Paul’s willingness to take risks for visibility might tempt him to pursue the matchup, especially if it lands in Saudi Arabia or Las Vegas, where crossover bouts thrive.
Likelihood: 30% — A massive draw but depends on Ngannou’s ongoing PFL and boxing commitments.
2. Anthony Joshua – The Dream (and the Drama)
When talk turns to British heavyweights, one name always commands attention: Anthony Joshua. Though the idea of Paul facing Joshua might seem unrealistic at first glance, the entertainment factor is undeniable.
Joshua’s professionalism and pedigree would dwarf Paul’s experience, but in the world of spectacle sports, size and star power often outweigh logic.
Promoters have already teased the idea of a major global event involving Joshua, Deontay Wilder, and crossover names. If Paul can position himself within that orbit, it could redefine how non-traditional fighters break into elite boxing cards.
Likelihood: 10% — A fantasy matchup, but one that sells headlines and ignites global discussion.
3. KSI (Rematch) – The Rivalry Reloaded
The YouTube rivalry between KSI and Jake Paul remains one of the most lucrative storylines in influencer boxing. Both have evolved since their amateur beginnings — KSI has refined his style, while Paul has faced legitimate professionals.
A rematch between the two would easily sell out arenas and dominate social media globally. It’s a fight fans have waited for, one that promises unfinished business and emotional stakes.
The only issue? Both men want to maintain their perceived dominance, and neither wants to be seen as taking a step backward.
Still, the timing might be perfect. With no confirmed opponent for December, KSI offers the one thing Paul values most — guaranteed attention.
Likelihood: 40% — Emotionally charged, commercially perfect, and ready-made for a December main event.
4. Nate Diaz (Rematch) – The Grudge Continues
Jake Paul’s previous victory over Nate Diaz was decisive but not without drama. Diaz’s warrior spirit and willingness to fight again have sparked talks of a rematch.
The narrative would be simple: Paul vs. Diaz II, the final chapter.
For Paul, this fight carries less risk and high reward. Diaz remains a major name in combat sports, and the rivalry still holds entertainment value.
Likelihood: 50% — A practical, marketable fight that could fill the gap while Paul waits for a bigger opponent in 2026.
5. Tommy Fury (Rematch) – Unfinished Business
Paul’s loss to Tommy Fury still lingers. Despite the progress he’s made since, that defeat stands as a blemish on his boxing record. A rematch would offer redemption — and an easy marketing hook.
Fury’s camp has been vocal about revisiting the matchup, and fans remain intrigued by the idea of closure. The first fight drew millions in pay-per-view buys, proving the public appetite is there.
Likelihood: 60% — The most balanced choice in terms of competitiveness, legacy, and profitability.
🧠 Beyond the Hype: What Paul’s Strategy Reveals
What separates Jake Paul from the average celebrity boxer is his strategic approach to building a boxing career. He’s not content with novelty fights — he wants progression, recognition, and influence.
His training camps, led by respected coaches like Shane Mosley and BJ Flores in the past, have been legitimate. He’s faced adversity, studied the sport, and earned grudging respect from purists who initially dismissed him.
Now, his next opponent represents the next chapter of that evolution — the point where he must decide whether he remains a showman or becomes a genuine contender.
“People can say whatever they want,” Paul once said in a post-fight press conference. “I’m not here for attention anymore. I’m here for legacy.”
That quote might sound bold, but it reflects his growing ambition.
💰 The Business of Being Jake Paul
Behind the gloves, Jake Paul is also a businessman — and one of the smartest marketers in combat sports. Every fight he stages is a narrative, designed to pull in fans from different demographics: boxing purists, YouTube audiences, MMA followers, and mainstream media.
Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) has also evolved beyond his own career. It manages other fighters, including women’s boxing star Amanda Serrano, whose success adds legitimacy to Paul’s promotional credentials.
The combination of showmanship and structure makes Paul an influential figure in boxing’s modern era. His ability to sell fights while contributing to boxing’s ecosystem is unmatched in the influencer sphere.
⚡ The Public Perception Problem
Despite his achievements, Jake Paul remains a divisive figure. To traditional boxing fans, he represents the commercialization of a sacred sport. To his supporters, he’s an innovator bridging entertainment and athleticism.
His next opponent could redefine that perception. A fight against a true professional — someone with credibility, not celebrity — could shift the narrative permanently.
Beating another influencer or MMA fighter will maintain his audience. Beating a genuine boxer, however, will reshape his legacy.
The decision he makes now will determine which version of Jake Paul the world remembers: the entertainer or the athlete.
🏟️ December Fight Card Possibilities
While no venue or date has been confirmed, discussions suggest that Paul’s December bout could land in either Las Vegas or Saudi Arabia, both proven markets for crossover boxing.
A Las Vegas return would cater to the American audience that helped make Paul a pay-per-view draw. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, offers scale, global reach, and unparalleled financial backing.
If the fight lands in Riyadh, expect a stacked undercard featuring crossover stars — influencers, former UFC fighters, and emerging boxers seeking exposure.
🗣️ Expert Reactions: Divided Opinions
Boxing analysts remain split on Paul’s trajectory.
Former world champion Tony Bellew believes Paul’s progression is “legitimate but cautious,” while pundit Carl Froch continues to criticize his matchmaking, calling it “entertainment first, sport second.”
Sky Sports’ own Andy Scott has argued that the influencer era, led by figures like Paul, has actually benefited boxing’s commercial health. “He’s brought eyes to the sport that weren’t there before. That’s not something to dismiss.”
The public may debate his merit, but the numbers don’t lie — Jake Paul sells.
🚀 What Comes After December
Whatever happens next, 2026 could be a transformative year for Paul. If he secures a meaningful opponent and wins convincingly, the doors to bigger fights open — perhaps even sanctioned title opportunities.
A trilogy with Tommy Fury, a showdown with a ranked cruiserweight, or even a hybrid rules event involving UFC fighters could all be in play.
Paul’s stated goal remains to become a legitimate world champion before the age of 30 — an audacious ambition, but one consistent with his character.
🏁 Final Thoughts: The “Problem Child” at the Crossroads
Jake Paul’s boxing story is still being written. From viral fame to legitimate fights, he’s challenged perceptions and created his own lane in combat sports.
Now, standing at a crossroads, he faces a defining choice: chase spectacle, or pursue substance.
Whatever path he chooses, one truth remains undeniable — Jake Paul has become a mainstay in boxing’s modern narrative. Love him or hate him, he’s changed the game.
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