The Impact of Jake and Logan Paul on Boxing

The Paul brothers, Jake and Logan, have undeniably made a significant impact on the world of boxing. Transitioning from YouTubers to fighters, they have found a way to create a splash in the sport. While Logan Paul had not fought anyone notable before his exhibition bout with Floyd Mayweather in June, he managed to go the distance with the 12-time champion, leaving fans wondering if Mayweather allowed it or if Logan’s size and youth played a role. On the other hand, Jake Paul may not have faced an opponent with Mayweather’s caliber, but he has compiled an impressive résumé so far. He has secured knockouts against former NBA player Nate Robinson and former MMA fighter Ben Askren, which has garnered attention. Furthermore, in his bout with ex-MMA fighter Tyron Woodley in December, Jake Paul did not disappoint.

Recently, former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson expressed his belief that the Paul brothers are beneficial for boxing during his appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s podcast, “Club Shay Shay.” However, not everyone shares this opinion, including current UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. Like Tyson, Usman also appeared on “Club Shay Shay” and acknowledged the Paul brothers’ role in attracting a new generation of fans to boxing. However, unlike Tyson, Usman doubts the long-term impact of their rise in the sport.

When asked if he would fight one of the Paul brothers, Usman responded affirmatively, albeit with a caveat. He mentioned that the Paul brothers have managed to generate a lot of attention, especially among YouTubers and the younger generation. While this is positive in terms of expanding the sport’s reach, Usman questions whether it translates to financial success. He believes that the Paul brothers are unable to drive significant pay-per-view revenues, particularly compared to established fighters like Floyd Mayweather.

Usman explains, “Logan Paul fought Floyd , but that’s Floyd. Floyd’s been making $100 million per pay-per-view. So that money came because of Floyd. But Jake Paul, he says, ‘Oh, we’re doing these numbers.’ You could add up every fight Jake Paul has had, and their pay-per-view numbers weren’t more than what I did in my last fight.”

While the Logan Paul-Floyd Mayweather exhibition reportedly brought in approximately $50 million in revenue, with Mayweather earning around $35 million and Paul securing at least $5 million, there remains skepticism regarding the reported $40 million Jake Paul supposedly earned from his three fights last year. Usman, for instance, questions the accuracy of that figure. It is worth noting that Usman himself has an estimated net worth of $3 million according to The Sporting News.

Regardless of the discrepancies in reported earnings, Usman emphasizes that a substantial paycheck would be required to entice him into a match with Jake Paul. He asserts, “So they can say whatever they want to say. He can say this or I can say that. Write me a check for $100 million, Jake Paul, and I’ll be there to kick your a** next week.”

If you’re interested in watching the full episode of “Club Shay Shay,” you can find it on YouTube or subscribe to the podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts.