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Boxing

17th Dec 2021

Jake Paul plans to train with Khabib Nurmagomedov and launch MMA career

Kieran Galpin

‘People seem to forget that I was a state wrestler, division one in Ohio’

Jake Paul has stated that he plans to train with Khabib Nurmagomedov when he makes the jump from boxing to MMA.

Despite initial apprehension from the fanbase, Paul has solidified himself as a professional boxer capable of going up against some industry top-tier fighters.

Now, the internet personality has staked his intent to jump from the ring to the cage and train with none other than Nurmagomedov.

What’s more, he has promised to do the same thing in the mixed martial arts arena, having made such notable strides in boxing within two years.

However first, he’ll have to beat ex-UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley who he’ll re-fight this Saturday night.

“For sure, 100 per cent I think it could happen,” Paul said when prompted about a possible MMA fight at their pre-fight press conference.

“Why not? If I can learn how to box in two years and beat people like [Woodley], then why can’t I learn how to do MMA in two years and beat people like him?

“That’s my answer, it will happen at some point, 100 per cent.”

Woodley however did not take kindly to Paul’s words and stated that his dreams were a long way off.

“You’re a liar,” Woodley laughed.

“Let’s do MMA then, after we do the boxing I can elbow you in the head and knee you in the nugget. He’s cap [lying].”

In a later interview, Paul claimed his MMA coach will be Javier Mendez, who also trains powerhouse Nurmagomedov.

“People seem to forget that I was a state wrestler, division one in Ohio.

“That’s one of the hardest wrestling states and I don’t see why if I can do boxing at this high of a level that I couldn’t do MMA at this high of a level.

“I’m going to go and get coached up by Javier Mendes, Team Khabib and that’s that.

“They’re down, 100 per cent – I’ve got to go 10-0 or 12-0 in boxing first and then I’ll hit that MMA fight.”

Will Paul fare as well in the cage? Only the future will tell.

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