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SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE – OCTOBER 26: Ben Askren prepares to enter the Octagon prior to his welterweight bout against Demian Maia of Brazil during the UFC Fight Night event at Singapore Indoor Stadium on October 26, 2019 in Singapore. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

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SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE – OCTOBER 26: Ben Askren prepares to enter the Octagon prior to his welterweight bout against Demian Maia of Brazil during the UFC Fight Night event at Singapore Indoor Stadium on October 26, 2019 in Singapore. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Ben Askren fought Jake Paul at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. It was the third professional fight for Jake Paul and the first for Ben Askren. The crossover fight had drawn the attention of many people, as it was one of the biggest events of the year.
Besides the boxing and crossover fights, many celebrities graced the event. These included names like American pop star Justin Bieber, rapper Snoop Dogg, and Comedian Pete Davidson. Hence, in the eyes of many, the boxing event seemed more like an entertainment event.
Per Ben Fowlkes, ‘Funky‘ who was on the card said, I feel so bad for the parents trying to explain to their kids what’s happening on TV right now.”
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Askren mentions his wrestlers watching this: “I feel so bad for the parents trying to explain to their kids what’s happening on TV right now.”
Interview-wise? This work feels like it’s turning into a shoot right now.
— Ben Fowlkes (@benfowlkesMMA) April 18, 2021
As a combat athlete, ‘Funky’ related to their struggles and voiced his honest opinion. The show was unlike any typical boxing event. Therefore, the hardcore combat fans may have found it hard to relate to what was going on.
Justin Bieber performed his songs from the newly released album Justis Right at Midnight. It spread the Bieber fever all over the building, and fans who paid for the PPV could enjoy the performance live on TV. Furthermore, American rapper Snoop Dogg, and SNL comedian Pete Davidson, were on the mic for uncensored commentary.
Also WWE superstar, Ric Flair served as a referee in a slapping contest. Hence, the Triller PPV was miles away from a proper boxing event, and given the success, it could set a template for the sport that may become easier to explain with time.
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‘Funky’ Ben Askren lost to Jake Paul in a controversial TKO stoppage
‘The Problem Child’ knocked out ‘Funky’ Ben Askren in the very first round of the fight. The stoppage was very controversial, as, despite Askren getting to his feet, the referee did not let him continue with the fight. Many commentators believed it was a quick stoppage and the fight should have gone a little longer.

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MIAMI, FLORIDA – JANUARY 30: Jake Paul celebrates with his brother, Logan, after defeating AnEsonGib in a first round knockout during their fight at Meridian at Island Gardens on January 30, 2020 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Following his third win and KO in boxing, Paul has made a statement to all his doubters, including Dana White and Ric Flair. Initially, ‘The Nature Boy’, who was unsure about the toughness of ‘The Problem Child’, was rooting for Askren.
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Now, it’s clear that Jake Paul has got some serious hands, and will return for more events that will feature a mix of entertainment and boxing.
What do you think about the controversial stoppage?
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