After Challenging Jake Paul, Dwight Howard Switches Tune With 5-Word Tribute Following Ruthless Finish

Dwight Howard was quick with his 180-degree shift! Just days ago, the NBA star confidently called out internet personality/boxer Jake Paul for a fight. But it seems that after watching the 27-year-old’s latest dominance in the ring, Howard thought the best path forward was to change sides. The 3x Defensive Player of the Year was present during Paul’s most anticipated matchup against Ryan Bourland. Paul was at his best as he claimed the first-round knockout win over his opponent at the Coliseo Jose Miguel Agrelot in Puerto Rico.

The boxer who dreamt of becoming a world champion one day even managed to defeat professional Andre August back in December. It seems his latest power battle was enough to diminish Dwight Howard’s hopes for a clash. The 2020 NBA champion was present at the event and recently posted on his X to hype up Jake Paul. Along with the post, Howard also penned a 5-word message to pay tribute to the star. The post read, “My brother 1 Take Jake.”

Previously, in one of his Instagram posts, Dwight Howard was seen asking former Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao to train him. It was during one of his trips to the Philippines for the ‘World Smiles Tour.’ He had a special motive behind the request. Howard wanted to be trained to be able to face off against Jake Paul.

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Dwight Howards predicted Jake Paul’s victory

‘Superman’ shared numerous snaps and snippets from his meet with Pacquiao on his Instagram. In the clip on the fourth slide of his post, the champ declared his wish to battle Paul. He was seen enthusiastically screaming, “Me and Manny Pacquiao, Jake Paul, I’m coming for you baby, I’m coming, Let’s go!”

While we are not sure whether it was meant as a joke or it is Howard’s wish to gain a name in the boxing world by defeating the rising star, the former Los Angeles Laker is surely the biggest fan of the influencer-turned-boxer. He was present at the arena to show support and cheer for Paul, generating excitement and garnering attention from fans.

Furthermore, Howard confidently expressed belief in Paul’s ability. As he was asked by a journalist about his opinion on who would win the bout, Howard named Paul as an obvious answer. We have to wait some more time to see if we can expect a bout between the NBA star and Paul. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments section below.

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