Freddie Roach to train Ben Askren for Jake Paul bout: ‘I’m trying to be as good of a boxer as I can’

If fans thought for the slightest second that Ben Askren wasn’t serious about his training for Jake Paul, this latest update from the former UFC welterweight’s fight camp might change a few minds. The former Bellator and ONE Championship titleholder recently revealed to MMA Junkie Radio that he’s enlisted the help of one of the best trainers of all-time.

“I’m only in LA for a week, so I’m gonna get as much as I can out of Freddie Roach,” Askren said. “I’m gonna try to pick his brain.”

We’ve already seen Askren’s training videos and sparring footage, none of which paint a very technical portrait of his ability. The “Funky” one, however, is fine with the modest expectations he’d set for himself.

“I’m trying to be as good of a boxer as I can. I’m not under the impression that I’m maybe a pro boxer,” the 36-year-old Askren said. “I’ve been top ten in the world in four different sports. I know what it’s like to be world-class. I’m not gonna be a world-class boxer.

“But I don’t gotta be a world-class boxer. I just gotta beat up Jake freaking Paul. That ain’t gonna be that hard.”

Of course, Askren isn’t the only MMA fighter training with Roach these days. Even top-five lightweight contenders are doing so with the intent of elevating their game.

Paul vs. Askren will take place on April 17 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. You can purchase the PPV through FITE.tv for $49.99.