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There are several reasons why YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul has had to pivot from Plan A to Plan B throughout his pugilistic career. Medical issues forced Tommy Fury out of their fight in 2021, so Paul sought out a short-notice rematch against Tyron Woodley. Weight issues forced Hasim Rahman Jr. out of their fight in 2022, and Paul had to wait a few months to return to the ring against Anderson Silva. And now, the ‘Problem Child’ has another reason why he may have to pivot again: legal issues, courtesy of his next opponent, Nate Diaz.
Is Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz in jeopardy?
This past Friday, the former UFC fighter was involved in several run-ins with influencers Chase DeMoor and Rodney Peterson after a Misfits Boxing event in New Orleans, Louisiana. The run-in with Peterson, who has carved out a career as a Logan Paul impersonator, turned violent as Diaz slept Peterson with a standing guillotine during a Bourbon Street brawl that has since gone viral.
On Monday, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) issued an arrest warrant for Diaz on suspicion of second-degree battery. The NOPD released a statement, which revealed Peterson required aid from Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for an injury he suffered to the ‘rear of his head’ after hitting it on the concrete once Diaz released the standing guillotine. The Stockton native has yet to turn himself into the NOPD. A representative for Diaz also released a statement, saying his client ‘acted entirely in self-defense’.
Paul accepts backup fighter offer from KSI
Due to his situation, there was some concern Diaz may not fight Paul in their scheduled eight-rounder on Aug. 5 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Should that happen, fellow YouTuber-turned-boxer Olajide Olatunji, better known as KSI, has offered to be the backup.
“Well, if that mean Jake won’t have an opponent in August…then I’ll gladly come as the replacement after I KO Joe Fournier in May,” tweeted KSI.
Paul wasted no time responding to KSI, accepting his offer.
“Great. I accepted you as the backup opponent,” tweeted Paul. “Fight is at 185. There are no rehydration clauses. Stay in shape and we will give you a call if needed. Thanks buddy for being so humble and committed.”
Paul and KSI have tried to schedule a fight for several years, but it never came to fruition for one reason or another. After seeing their recent exchange, Diaz implored them to get it over with.
“Lol why don’t [you] two scared p—ssys just fight each other August,” tweeted Diaz. “I’ll fight someone who can really fight.”
It appears as though Paul vs. Diaz is on — for now. The pair come face-to-face ahead of their upcoming fight during their first press conference, which is scheduled for May 9 in Dallas, Texas.
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