Jake Paul has revealed significant private discussions are underway regarding a potential fight against boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk, following Paul`s hints at a world title opportunity.
The Ukrainian heavyweight champion initially challenged the YouTube star turned boxer, and their respective teams are currently in talks.
However, Usyk proposed the fight take place in an MMA cage rather than a boxing ring.
Paul is signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) and intends to make his MMA debut next year, listing Usyk as a potential opponent.
Appearing alongside UFC and boxing legend Holly Holm, Paul stated, “I want to be like Holly here and test my skills in the cage.”
“That`s something I`m super, super interested in and I think it would be a very, very big spectacle.”
He added, “Nate Diaz is still ducking but we need to find the right opponent, Usyk maybe.”
Paul`s promotional partner, Nakisa Bidarian, further confirmed, “Usyk has called out Jake multiple times in MMA.”
Bidarian continued, “They`ve been in touch with us behind the scenes saying they want to do that in 2026. So something we definitely want to pursue.”
He also mentioned that the PFL has expressed interest in promoting such a crossover event.
Before any potential clash with Paul, the 38-year-old Usyk is scheduled to return on July 19 at Wembley Stadium for a rematch against Daniel Dubois, 27, whom he defeated in 2023.
This upcoming fight will be for the undisputed heavyweight titles, following Usyk`s two points victories over Tyson Fury, 36, last year.
Usyk has indicated he plans to retire after just two more fights and has previously called out UFC star Alex Pereira, 37.
Meanwhile, the 28-year-old Paul`s next fight is against former middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, 39, set for June 28 in California.
This follows Paul`s points win in November against Mike Tyson, who made a controversial return to the ring at the age of 58.
Paul is moving back down to cruiserweight after previously competing at heavyweight and confirmed talks about potentially fighting WBC cruiserweight champion Badou Jack.
Paul stated, “I`m super interested. I had Nakisa contact his team behind the scenes so those discussions are happening.”
This comes after the 41-year-old Jack told SunSport, “It`s a money fight. It`s an easy fight and it`s a money fight. So, why not?”
