Sean Strickland aims big payday boxing Jake Paul after revealing that he could make more money fighting the YouTuber-turned-boxer than he has during his entire UFC career. Strickland, who has spent over a decade in the UFC octagon, shared this on a stream while expressing frustration about the financial rewards in MMA not matching the risks fighters endure.
Boxing has long been known for offering higher earnings compared to mixed martial arts due to differing business models, with top boxers often earning exponentially more than UFC athletes. This lucrative disparity has encouraged several MMA stars to crossover into boxing. Strickland’s interest in facing Jake Paul highlights this trend, as the former UFC middleweight champion sees a chance for a massive paycheck outside the UFC’s current structure.
The Financial Gap Between MMA and Boxing
Strickland has engaged in several brutal battles against elite contenders during his UFC tenure, winning respect and briefly holding the middleweight title after a stunning victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 293. Despite his success, he has publicly voiced frustration with fighter compensation, feeling it does not fairly reflect the personal risks and challenges endured inside the cage.
“Go f**king beat up Jake Paul. I would make more money f**king up Jake Paul than I would in my entire UFC career, how fu*ked up is that. But Jake Paul sucks… you always fu**ing suck. You will always be a little d*** influencer,”
Strickland said during his stream with Adin Ross.
Jake Paul’s Rise From Social Media Star to Boxing Contender
Jake Paul transitioned from being a YouTuber to a prominent figure in boxing by carefully selecting high-profile opponents that intrigued fans. Although initially mocked for entering the sport without a traditional boxing background, Paul’s bouts against retired UFC fighters and legends such as Mike Tyson dramatically raised his profile, demonstrating his ability to monetize fights through pay-per-view hype and online promotion.
Paul’s boxing career has been marked by public feuds with UFC leadership and fighters over fighter pay. Despite this, he has continued to push for bouts against MMA competitors while maintaining his dominance in the promotional space. He even confronted former UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira about a potential boxing bout, although it never came to fruition.
Mixed Reactions and Respect from MMA Fighters
While many fighters criticize Paul, some acknowledge his dedication and improving skills. Mike Perry, who previously lost to Paul in the ring, recently commended the YouTuber’s work ethic and the quality of his training camp during an appearance on the Pound 4 Pound Podcast.
“He’s consistent with his camp. He’s paying his camp well. He’s got the best training that he can buy with his money around him. To prepare for a boxing match… We had to give him credit. He has gotten a lot better. Is he a professional contender? No! But I will say this about Jake Paul. Jake’s pretty good. Nobody will give him credit. That’s fine. I’d like to get a better chance to take it from him.” —Mike Perry, Boxer and Former MMA Fighter
This perspective highlights the growing respect Paul commands despite ongoing criticism from both fans and fighters who doubt his legitimacy as a contender. His strategic approach to training and marketing continues to prove effective in generating attention and revenue.
Strickland’s UFC Career and Recent Setbacks
Strickland’s rise culminated with a shock victory over Israel Adesanya to capture the middleweight championship, but he has since lost the title and suffered two decisive defeats against current champion Dricus Du Plessis. Despite these setbacks, Strickland remains a popular figure, known for his blunt personality and unfiltered opinions, which contribute to his substantial fan base’s support.
The prospect of a fight between Strickland and Paul excites fans due to the potential for explosive exchanges, rival insults, and strong pay-per-view numbers. However, contractual restrictions with the UFC could complicate negotiations, as Paul has expressed reluctance to face fighters bound by UFC agreements who lack full freedom in negotiations.
Jake Paul’s Negotiations and Influence in the Boxing World
Jake Paul has extended his reach beyond fights with UFC veterans by nearly securing a contract with elite boxing star Canelo Alvarez. That deal ultimately fell through following interference from Saudi Arabian promoter Turki Alalshikh, leading to a public dispute where Paul accused Alvarez of prioritizing money over competition.
This episode underscores Paul’s growing influence in boxing, both as a competitor and a promotional force. His ability to generate lucrative matchups and draw massive audiences solidifies his place in the sport’s evolving landscape.
What This Could Mean for MMA Fighters
Sean Strickland’s interest in boxing Jake Paul is emblematic of a larger trend where MMA fighters explore boxing as a path to larger financial rewards. The significant disparity in earnings and the wide reach of boxing promotion encourage fighters to seek high-profile crossover bouts. For Strickland, a win against Paul could not only elevate his financial standing significantly but also broaden his sporting legacy beyond the UFC.
While UFC contracts and regulatory hurdles remain obstacles, this potential matchup highlights the evolving dynamics between MMA and boxing, spotlighting how fighters are capitalizing on new opportunities to maximize their careers.