Jake Paul targets huge fight for boxing return after Anthony Joshua broke his jaw in four places
Jake Paul is actively pursuing a blockbuster showdown with Canelo Alvarez as he recovers from the devastating knockout defeat to Anthony Joshua in December that left him with a jaw broken in four places.
The 29-year-old American, who required surgery to insert four titanium plates following the brutal loss, has been relentlessly contacting his co-promoter about securing the Mexican superstar as his next opponent.
Nakisa Bidarian, who co-founded Most Valuable Promotions with Paul, told The Sun: “He keeps messaging me about wanting to fight Canelo.
“I keep saying to him, ‘Let’s just meet and discuss what the right path is.'”
Despite his serious injury, Paul remains determined to continue his boxing career.
The YouTuber-turned-boxer opted to pit his wits against Joshua after Gervonta Davis was withdrawn from their planned exhibition following domestic abuse allegations.
Paul had originally been preparing for the 5ft 5in fighter who competes at 135lb and would have entered the ring at around 160lb, leaving him woefully underprepared for Joshua.
Jake Paul is actively pursuing a blockbuster showdown with Canelo Alvarez as he recovers from the devastating knockout defeat to Anthony Joshua in December that left him with a jaw broken in four places
|
GETTY
His rehabilitation is progressing well, with Bidarian revealing: “I saw some videos today where he was doing a training session in the gym, but the training session was chewing gum and doing different stuff with his chin, so I think he’s doing well.”
The American remains under medical suspension until cleared by a physician, but can resume sparring in June, potentially enabling an August return.
Paul and Canelo came close to announcing a Cinco de Mayo bout in Las Vegas last year before the 35-year-old Mexican opted instead for a four-fight agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Turki Alalshikh.
Five facts about boxing that fans might not know | GBNEWS/PA
Canelo defeated William Scull in May but suffered a points loss to Terence Crawford in September, a result that has fuelled Paul’s confidence.
Bidarian said: “He called me about Canelo and Crawford in the past month and a half, and I was like, ‘Dude, like come on, man. Let’s just heal first.'”
Paul responded that while Crawford might currently be beyond his reach, he has Canelo’s contact details and wants the fight.
The commercial potential is significant, with Canelo’s massive Hispanic fanbase making it an attractive global crossover event.
Bidarian emphasised the importance of proper preparation time moving forward, noting there are numerous options depending on whether Paul prioritises title fights or major crossover events.
Canelo Alvarez is a huge name in the world of boxing and is Jake Paul’s dream opponent
|
GETTY“So I think now with the foresight of time we can plan it the right way with the right opponent and really fine tune his craft,” he said.
The co-promoter was visiting London to unveil a partnership between MVP and Sky Sports, marking the broadcaster’s return to boxing.
Caroline Dubois and Terri Harper will headline the first event on 5 April at the Olympia in Kensington.
Bidarian added: “We’re excited about the rest of 2026 and beyond. We’ve built a roster of UK champions, UK prospects, UK contenders.”
