via Getty
Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images
via Getty
Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images
Social media stars and traditional fighters often collide in the ever-changing world of combat sports. After his recent win against MMA star Nate Diaz, Jake Paul is all ears for his next challenge. Amidst the challenge hunt, Jake Paul has made a significant callout. Moreover, this callout has sparked immense intrigue and debate among his fans.
Once a YouTube sensation and now a professional boxer, Jake Paul, wants to face the grandson of legendary Muhammad Ali, Nico Ali Walsh. After his victory in the recent match with Diaz, ‘The Problem Child’ was clear that he would fight Diaz in MMA. Furthermore, this stemmed from his desire for an even victory. Just as he defeated Nate in boxing, he wants to do the same in MMA. However, his shoutout for Muhammad Ali’s grandson ekes a different dimension to the narrative.
How did Muhammad Ali’s grandson react to the wish of Jake Paul?
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According to an article by Boxing Scene, Nico Ali Walsh has made his stance on Jake Paul’s fight callout clear. In a recent interview, Nico Walsh said, “That’s funny… I have been asked that a few times. I would say that for me personally, right now, that’s not something I’d be interested in now.”
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Furthermore, he eked saying, “I want to make a career for myself, I want to continue my grandfather’s legacy in boxing and carve my own path as well.”
Indeed, his refusal stems from the size difference and the nature of the challenge. Evidently, a fight with Paul doesn’t fit his goals. So, sadly, this fight won’t happen. Additionally, Nico is committed to his craft and wants to preserve his legendary grandfather’s legacy. Moreover, he respects traditional fighting paths. Therefore, he has dismissed the callout. However, Paul’s PFL Deal allows him to go beyond boxing.
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All about Paul’s PFL Deal
Jake Paul’s signing with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) is a statement, not just a contract. Furthermore, he plans to fight in mixed martial arts in 2023 in a division called Super Fight. Paul and his business partner, Nakisa Bidarian, also have an equity share in the company. This move puts Paul in direct competition with the UFC. Paul hasn’t shied away from openly criticizing the UFC’s pay system.
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Moreover, The Super Fight division will now pay their fighters a minimum of 50 percent of the pay-per-view revenue. This contrasts sharply with the less than 20 percent that UFC fighters usually make. P.F.L. co-founder and chairman Donn Davis said, “You’re not a prisoner anymore to UFC. You can choose UFC or P.F.L.” Furthermore, Paul will also serve as “head of fighter advocacy.”
Read More: Dillon Danis Warns Jake Paul To “Stay Ready” Amid Ongoing Verbal-Feud With Logan Paul
The callout by Jake Paul to fight Muhammad Ali’s grandsons, Biaggio Ali Walsh and Nico Ali Walsh, has brought to light the contrasting paths and perspectives within the world of combat sports. While the proposal may have captured attention, the Ali grandsons’ focus on legacy, size considerations, and career goals sets them apart from the social media-driven approach of Paul.
What are your thoughts on this intriguing matchup that never was? Feel free to unravel your thoughts in the comments below!
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