Jake Paul, the YouTuber-turned-boxer, has stirred the pot once again by questioning the punching power of his recent opponent, UFC legend Nate Diaz. Despite Diaz’s storied career in mixed martial arts, Paul claims that Diaz was the weakest puncher he has ever faced in the ring.
Paul’s journey into combat sports has seen him face a variety of opponents, starting with fellow internet celebrities, a basketball player, and former MMA fighter Ben Askren, who is not known for his striking abilities. His subsequent fights included matches against two lesser-known journeymen and the 49-year-old former UFC champion Anderson Silva. According to Paul, all these fighters packed more of a punch than Diaz did during their bout last August.
“The Problem Child” emerged victorious in his eight-round decision win over Diaz, even managing to drop the seasoned fighter during the match. Despite talks of a rematch and Paul’s public offer of $15 million to Diaz for a fight under MMA rules, the second bout has yet to materialize.
In a recent discussion with UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley, Paul was candid about his experience in the ring with Diaz. “He’s the weakest puncher I’ve ever fought,” Paul stated bluntly. “When he was hitting me, I almost started laughing. I’m not even saying this to talk s***. Out of everyone I’ve sparred in my whole entire life and everyone I’ve fought, his punches are the weakest.”
This assessment might come as a surprise to many, given Diaz’s reputation in the UFC. Diaz, 39, has famously rocked opponents like Conor McGregor, whom he submitted after a stunning punch at UFC 196 in March 2016. He also wobbled UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards and outboxed top fighters such as Donald Cerrone, Anthony Pettis, and Michael Johnson. Nevertheless, Diaz’s record shows that only five of his 21 wins have come by knockout, indicating that his striking power might not be as formidable as his endurance and technical skills.
Despite Paul’s criticism, Diaz remains a respected figure in combat sports, known for his resilience and ability to outlast his opponents. Diaz is set to box Jorge Masvidal on July 6, adding another chapter to his extensive fighting career.
Paul, meanwhile, is looking ahead to his next challenge. With a fight scheduled against former UFC star Mike Perry on July 20, Paul will have to face a formidable striker before his highly-anticipated bout against boxing legend Mike Tyson on November 15. Perry, who transitioned to bare-knuckle boxing, boasts an impressive record and is known for his knockout power, making him a significant threat to Paul.
As Paul continues to build his boxing career, his comments about Diaz are likely part of his ongoing strategy to generate buzz and maintain his position in the spotlight. Whether or not a rematch with Diaz materializes, Paul’s upcoming fights promise to be thrilling encounters that will keep fans eagerly watching.
