Jake Paul spent his entire Mike Tyson fight purse on $39 million purchase that made ‘dream’ come true
In a move that has captured the attention of fans and critics alike, Jake Paul, the YouTube sensation turned professional boxer, has revealed that he spent his entire purse from his high-profile fight against Mike Tyson on a $39 million purchase that fulfilled a lifelong dream. The purchase, a sprawling 5,653-acre sporting ranch in Georgia named Southlands, represents a significant milestone for the 28-year-old, who has long aspired to own such a property. Paul’s acquisition, made possible by his estimated $30 million earnings from the Tyson bout, underscores his knack for turning spectacle into substantial financial gain, while also highlighting his personal connection to the outdoors.
The Jake Paul versus Mike Tyson fight, which took place on November 15, 2024, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, was a global phenomenon, drawing a record-breaking 65 million viewers on Netflix, making it the most-streamed sporting event in history. Despite the controversial nature of the bout—pitting a 27-year-old influencer against a 58-year-old boxing legend—Paul emerged victorious by unanimous decision, further cementing his polarizing presence in the boxing world. While the fight itself was criticized by some as more of a spectacle than a legitimate sporting event, with two-minute rounds and heavier 14-ounce gloves, it proved to be a financial windfall for both fighters. Paul, who initially claimed he would earn $40 million, later clarified on The Iced Coffee Hour podcast that his purse was in the “low 30s,” around $30 million, while Tyson reportedly earned $20 million.
Paul’s decision to invest his earnings into Southlands, a storied plantation in Decatur County, Georgia, reflects a deeply personal ambition. “I’ve been wanting to buy a ranch for the past 15 years,” Paul shared on the podcast. “It’s kind of been my dream and why I work so hard. I love everything to do with it—hunting, jet skiing, ATVs, fishing, horses, cows, and all that stuff.” He recounted fond memories of spending time at a cabin with his father during his childhood, which fueled his desire to own a property that could recreate that sense of connection to nature. The ranch, which came on the market in October 2024 for $42.5 million, was secured by Paul at the end of April 2025 for $39 million, a record-breaking deal brokered by Jon Kohler & Associates.
Southlands is no ordinary property. Spanning over 5,600 acres, it is a sportsman’s paradise, rich with wild quail and trophy white-tail deer. Its history dates back over a century, originally assembled by conservationist Herbert Stoddard and later owned by notable figures, including U.S. Senator Houghton Metcalf and philanthropist Jim Dahl. Paul has ambitious plans for the estate, including growing his own vegetables and building a racetrack, aligning with his vision of a self-sustaining retreat where he can indulge in his passions. “It’s massive, a little bit bigger than I wanted, but when I got there, I was like, ‘I have to buy this,’” Paul remarked, emphasizing the property’s allure.
The purchase comes at a pivotal moment in Paul’s boxing career. Following his victory over Tyson, he faced former WBC middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. on June 28, 2025, in Anaheim, California, further adding to his 11-1 professional record. While his fight purse for the Chavez Jr. bout was significantly lower—reportedly $300,000 according to the California State Athletic Commission—Paul’s overall boxing earnings are estimated to exceed $150 million, thanks to high-profile matches against opponents like Tommy Fury, Tyron Woodley, and Nate Diaz. His ability to generate massive paydays has been bolstered by his polarizing persona, which he admits to cultivating. “In boxing, the villain makes more,” Paul explained, acknowledging that his “bad guy” role drives viewership and revenue.
Critics of Paul’s boxing career argue that his fights, including the Tyson bout, prioritize entertainment over competitive integrity. However, his financial success and strategic investments, like the Southlands purchase, demonstrate his business acumen. The ranch not only fulfills a personal dream but also positions Paul to diversify his portfolio, moving beyond the ring and his YouTube fame. As he prepares for potential future bouts against top-tier fighters like Anthony Joshua or Gervonta Davis, Paul’s latest acquisition signals a shift toward building a legacy that extends beyond boxing. For now, Southlands stands as a testament to his ability to turn controversy into opportunity, transforming a single fight’s earnings into a tangible realization of a lifelong aspiration.
