Boxing News: Jake Paul Reveals Fascinating Reason For Not Headlining Next Fight

"The Problem Child" is set to return to the ring quickly.

Zain Bando | Jan 20, 2024

Boxing News: Jake Paul Reveals Fascinating Reason For Not Headlining Next Fight /

In his post-fight interview after another devastating KO, this time at the expense of Andre August in December, Jake Paul told Ariel Helwani his next venture would be revealed less than a week later.

He wasn't kidding.

Thursday marked a kickoff press conference in Puerto Rico, where Paul and Amanda Serrano, co-headlining their respective event on March 2, discussed the significance of reaching a wider audience.

Paul didn't hesitate when he decided to headline Serrano against IBF mandatory challenger Nina Meinke, given it's in her backyard.

"It’s surreal," Paul said. "All the people here are so nice, and lovely. Meeting Amanda Serrano changed my life, and it’s an honor to support her in this big moment in front of her hometown, her home crowd. And it’s just an honor to be part of this amazing event – which, hopefully, should be the biggest event in Puerto Rican boxing history. It’s going to be a night to remember. I’m super happy, and grateful, even for all the people who came out here today, and showing support."

Paul said Serrano should be celebrated as one of the pioneers of the evolution of women's boxing, hence his decision to step aside and be second fiddle.

Jake Paul Reveals Date For Next Fight

"She’s the queen of the island, and I’m just the supporting character on March 2," Paul said. "This is her night to create history and put on a show, and I’m just happy to be along for the ride. I think most people are going to be rooting for Amanda Serrano, so she’s the main event, and I’m happy to support and be a part of that. That’s what I wanted, and to just take a backseat."

At press time, Paul's opponent is unknown but is set to be announced in 10 days, making the anticipation all that more enticing.

The event will air on DAZN, beginning at 7 p,m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

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Published Jan 20, 2024

ZAIN BANDO

Zain Bando is a writer for MMA Knockout, part of the Sports Illustrated/Minute Media umbrella. He has covered combat sports since 2019 for notable outlets BJPenn.com and FanSided MMA. He also co-hosts a podcast called "The MMA Outsiders," part of the Empty The Bench Podcast Network, which airs Tuesday nights at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT. A Chicago suburban native, Bando has been enthralled with MMA since 2006 and has been fortunate to attend some of the most high-profile events in the sport's history, both as a fan and media member, including UFC 264, Bellator 297 and Kayla Harrison's PFL MMA debut. He is excited to take the next step in his combat sports writing journey and looks forward to continuing his following of the fight game for years to come. Bando can be reached via email at zainbando99@gmail.com or by social media @zainbando99