CALABASAS, CALIFORNIA: In an interview with talkSPORT's Jim White, Jake Paul's status as a "real boxer" came under the spotlight. Since the YouTube star transitioned to professional boxing, there has been continuous debate surrounding his legitimacy in the sport. However, during the interview, White seemingly settled the matter, acknowledging Paul as a legitimate boxer. Paul was taken aback by this revelation.
The discussion between Paul and White revolved around the former's upcoming fight with Nate Diaz. As the conversation delved into Paul's boxing career, White commented about him being a "boxer." Paul's disbelief at being labeled as such was palpable, hinting at the persistent doubts that have followed him throughout his boxing journey.
'It's cool to hear that'
During the interview, White posed an intriguing question to Paul, highlighting the upcoming clash between Paul and Diaz, who is an MMA fighter. He asked, "Here's the thing, this is boxing, you're the boxer, and he's an MMA fighter, surely you hold the advantage going into this?"
Paul couldn't hide his surprise on hearing that. He smiled and said, "Wait, I just want to clarify, you said I'm a boxer. A lot of people say I'm not, so it's cool to hear that."
During the interview, Paul delved into the significant differences between boxing and mixed martial arts. "It's true, it's two different sports and people want to say I'm a boxer, they don't want to say I'm a boxer and they can't make their minds up. But, on Saturday people are going to see me out-box this MMA fighter and it is two different sports. It's like comparing F1 to Nascar," he claimed.
'It's going to be hard'
Paul's last fight against Tommy Fury ended in his defeat. Reflecting on this setback, Paul is now gearing up for his upcoming clash with Diaz. When asked about the potential challenges posed by Diaz, Paul acknowledged that he might be tougher in terms of taking punches. However, he found it difficult to assess Diaz's boxing skills, making it a more uncertain factor in the upcoming bout.
"I think in terms of taking punches, yes," Paul said, adding, "But, in terms of his boxing skill, it's really tough to say, I think it's going to be hard to weather Nate Diaz and the storm he's going to bring to the ring and it's going to be more of a war and more of a battle than me vs Tommy."
Paul reflected on his previous fight against Fury, describing it as a skill-based event. However, he believed his upcoming clash with Diaz would be different. Paul anticipated that the fight with Diaz would be more about determination and willpower. "Me vs Tommy was more of a skill based event and so I think this will be who wants to win more," Paul said.
